Frequently Asked Questions

All beaver-related questions

Event details

The Beavers Across Britain Conference 2026 will take place on Wednesday 20th and Thursday 21st May 2026 at the Civic Centre, Barras Bridge, Haymarket, Newcastle upon Tyne.

This conference is open to anyone with an interest in beaver reintroduction, conservation, and river restoration, including:

  • Conservation professionals and ecologists
  • Environmental NGOs
  • Policymakers and government representatives
  • Landowners and farmers
  • Researchers, students and volunteers
  • People who work in private sector rewilding
  • People who can restore (or are already restoring) beavers to Britain
  • Those who have an interest in or want to be doing beaver restoration
  • People who have some level of knowledge of restoring beaver populations

The Beavers Across Britain Conference 2026 will explore science, practice and policy, including but not limited to:

  • The ecological impact of beaver reintroduction
  • River and wetland restoration
  • Flood mitigation and water management
  • Biodiversity gains from beaver activity
  • Challenges and opportunities for coexistence
  • Community engagement and education

You can expect keynote speakers, expert panels, interactive workshops, and networking opportunities.

Travel and accommodation

The Civic Centre is easy to reach:

  • By train: Newcastle Central Station is a 15-minute walk or a short Metro ride.
  • By Metro: Haymarket Metro Station is just a 2-minute walk from the venue.
  • By car: There is limited on-site parking, and several public car parks nearby. We recommend using public transport where possible.

Yes! Newcastle has a wide range of hotels and B&Bs within walking distance of the Civic Centre. We recommend booking early, as the city can be busy at this time of year.

We have special rates at the following

Yes – a staffed cloakroom and luggage storage area will be available at the venue.

Tickets and registration

Your ticket includes:

  • Full access to all main conference sessions, workshops and panels.
  • Entry to the exhibitor and networking areas.
  • Refreshments and a light lunch.

Evening networking dinner (If day 1 ticket or 2 day ticket selected).

  • Cancellations made up to 8 weeks before the event will receive a full refund (minus booking fees).
  • Cancellations made after this date are non-refundable.
  • If you are unable to attend, you may transfer your ticket to a colleague – please notify the organising team in advance.

If the event is cancelled by the organisers, a full refund will be issued.

Conference experience

No, we do not plan to offer a hybrid format.

Yes – networking is a big part of the conference:

  • Dedicated networking sessions each day
  • An exhibitor and poster area where you can meet organisations and project leads

An evening networking dinner on Wednesday, 20th May (Only for day 1 ticket and 2 day ticket holders)

Yes – all registered delegates will receive a form to submit questions in advance 

  • Submit questions to speakers in advance
  • Vote on questions during live Q&A sessions

Yes – official photographers and videographers will capture the event.

  • Photos may be used in future event publicity and reports
  • If you do not wish to be photographed, please inform the registration desk when you arrive

Participation and opportunities

Yes! We welcome organisations and individuals to get involved:

  • Exhibit: Book a stand in the exhibitor area
  • Sponsor: Showcase your organisation as a conference supporter

Please contact us for more information: conference2026@beavertrust.org

You can:

  • Follow them on social media and help increase awareness of beavers in Britain 
  • Sign up for our monthly newsletter to become part of the Castor Community
  • Make a one-off or monthly donation
  • Purchasing products from their online store
  • Become a supporter organisation with their corporate partnership programme
  • Volunteer with your local beaver projects – get in touch with them directly!

Accessibility and general information

We are committed to making the conference as accessible as possible:

  • The Civic Centre is fully wheelchair accessible
  • Dietary requirements will be catered for if notified in advance
  • Quiet spaces will be available for those who need a break from the busy environment

If you have specific access needs, please let us know on the registration form.

  • Children: The event is primarily aimed at adults, but young people (16+) with an interest in conservation are welcome if accompanied by a ticket-holding adult.
  • Pets: Only registered assistance dogs are permitted at the venue.

Contact information

You can reach the conference team at:

  • conference2026@beavertrust.org
  • 0161 871 8521