ANIMAL encounters

You don’t need to hop on a plane to enjoy great wildlife. Here are five places in the UK to see some amazing animals

- SAM MURRAY

Red and fallow deer, Richmond Park

This one-time royal hunting ground in southwest London is now a National Nature Reserve, home to some 345 red deer and 315 fallow deer. They have been free-roaming deer in Richmond Park since 1637 and their grazing plays an important part in managing the landscape. Visit during the high-octane rutting season (September to November), when testosterone-fuelled males roar and clash antlers to compete for females. Bring binoculars and be sure to keep your distance.

Where to stay: The Victoria (from £95), a six-room boutique in East Sheen, is about a 10-minute walk away, with a restaurant and a pub-bar helmed by expert mixologists.

Ospreys, Loch Garten RSPB Reserve