NORWICH GUIDED TOUR FIELD GUIDE
Night Glow on the Broad: A Guided Biofluorescence Walk with David Atthowe
A 1.5-hour guided evening walk at Salhouse Broad that uses supplied UV torches to reveal fungi, insects and plants glowing in vivid, unexpected colors.
Night Glow on the Broad: A Guided Biofluorescence Walk with David Atthowe.
At Salhouse Broad, a short guided walk transforms the familiar marsh and woodland margins into a secret, neon-scattered world. Under ultraviolet light, organisms that are normally unnoticed—fungi, insects and plants—flare into greens, blues, reds, purples and oranges as the guide leads you through this quiet, close-up survey of biofluorescence.
Highlights
Outing Highlights
Biofluorescence Revealed
Using UV light, the walk reveals organisms that re-emit light in colours different from those they absorb—an immediate, almost otherworldly display of fungi, insects and plants glowing in vivid hues.
Led by David Atthowe
The experience is delivered as a guided walk that focuses attention on the small, glowing details of the natural world—bringing a methodical, close-up eye to species that only reveal themselves under UV light.
An Intimate After-dark Stroll
The pace is deliberately slow to allow close inspection; participants move through nighttime habitats with torches to spotlight the biofluorescent display and observe unexpected colours in situ.
What the day feels like
What the Walk Feels Like
You gather and are equipped with UV torches and safety glasses, then step into the near-darkness for a slow, deliberate walk. The guide illuminates patches of ground and vegetation; what looked dull by daylight suddenly pulses with colour as fungi, insects and plants fluoresce under the UV. The event is intimate and close-focused—more a paced naturalist’s survey than a hike—lasting around ninety minutes.
Suitability
Who it's for
Who this walk suits—and who should reconsider.
Practical planner
Details to review before reserving
Wear warm clothing and trousers to avoid stinging nettles; sturdy shoes are recommended (walking boots ideal, trainers adequate). Safety glasses will be provided and must be worn throughout the walk.
Expect uneven ground and a deliberately slow pace to allow close inspection of biofluorescent organisms.
UV torches and safety glasses are supplied for the duration of the walk.
Review cancellation policies before reserving.
Frequently asked questions
Planning Your Outing
How long is the walk?
The experience runs for approximately 1.5 hours.
What age is suitable for this walk?
The walk is suitable for anyone aged 8 years and above; all children must be accompanied by an adult.
What should I wear?
Come dressed warmly, wear trousers to avoid stinging nettles and sturdy shoes—walking boots are ideal but trainers are adequate.
Is any equipment provided?
Yes—UV torches and safety glasses are provided and the safety glasses must be worn throughout the walk.
Is the walk physically demanding?
The pace is slow, but the terrain is uneven; participants should be comfortable walking on uneven ground after dark.