Published: 10 March 2025

Now that the sun’s finally decided to show its face, it’s the perfect opportunity to get outdoors and enjoy a bit of nature—and what better way than by spotting some of the UK’s most beautiful winged visitors: butterflies! Whether you’re a nature lover, a keen photographer, or just fancy a bit of peace and quiet in the garden, butterfly spotting is a wonderfully calming way to connect with the outdoors. So, here are our top tips to help you get up close with these fluttery little marvels.

Timing is everything

Butterflies are sun worshippers. You’ll have the best luck spotting them on warm, dry days—think temperatures above 17°C, ideally with a bit of sunshine. Late morning to early afternoon is prime butterfly time, when they’re most active and fluttering about looking for nectar. Avoid windy or gloomy days—they tend to hunker down and keep out of sight when the weather’s a bit pants.

Be still like a statue

Butterflies are easily spooked. Quick movements, stomping about, or waving your arms like a windmill will have them scarpering asap. The trick is to be calm, slow, and still. Let them come to you. Try sitting quietly in a sunny patch of garden or meadow and just watch. You’ll be amazed at how many start to appear when you blend into the background.

Watch your shadow

Sneaking up on a butterfly can be tricky—they’ll know you’re there the second your shadow touches them. If you’re lucky enough to spot one settled on a flower or wall, approach from the side or behind, keeping your shadow well out of their way.

Top tip: if you’re taking photos, turn off the flash and use natural light—it keeps the moment more peaceful and gives you that dreamy, sunlit glow.

Know your butterflies

It helps to know what you’re looking for. Some of the UK’s most common butterflies include:

Red Admiral – striking black wings with red bands and white spots.

Peacock – rich red wings with eye spots.

Small Tortoiseshell – orange and black with blue spots on the edges.

Comma – ragged wing edges and a white “comma” shape on the underside.

Brimstone – pale yellow (males) or greenish-white (females) and often the first to appear in spring.

There are around 60 butterfly species in the UK, so grab a pocket guide or download an ID app if you’re keen to learn more.

Make your garden a butterfly haven

Want to attract butterflies to your own back garden? It’s easier than you think.

  • Plant nectar-rich flowers like buddleia (aka the ‘butterfly bush’), lavender, marjoram, and verbena. Butterflies love flat, open blooms where they can land and sip away.
  • Leave a wild patch – long grass, nettles, and brambles might not look pristine, but they’re a paradise for caterpillars and butterflies. Nettles, in particular, are vital for species like the Peacock and Red Admiral.
  • Avoid pesticides – they might keep your roses looking sharp, but they’re bad news for butterflies and other pollinators.
  • Provide shelter – a few shrubs or a hedgerow offer protection from the wind and a cosy spot to roost.

Bring the kids (or your inner child)

Butterfly spotting is a brilliant family activity—binoculars, notebooks, and a bit of patience go a long way. Kids love the challenge of identifying different types, and it’s a lovely way to spend a sunny afternoon together. Or, if you’re flying solo, grab a cuppa, find a sunny bench, and just enjoy being part of the quiet little world of butterflies.

Final flutter…

You don’t need to trek to a nature reserve (though we do recommend it!)—even your back garden or local park can be full of butterfly life once you know where and how to look. It’s all about slowing down, paying attention, and letting nature do its thing. So next time the sun’s out, take a moment to enjoy the flutter of wings, the buzz of summer, and the small, sweet magic of butterflies.

Plan your visit to Holker Hall *& Gardens here.