The All Creatures Great and Small star shares his passion for nature and personal stories in Sam & Ade Go Birding.
Category: Arts & Culture
Samuel West, the acclaimed actor known for his role as Siegfried Farnon in the beloved series All Creatures Great and Small, is set to showcase his passion for birdwatching in a new three-part series on Channel 5, titled Sam & Ade Go Birding. The series, which premiered on April 14, 2026, features West teaming up with fellow actor Adrian Edmondson, who is a novice in the world of birdwatching.
In this new venture, West and Edmondson explore some of the UK’s most stunning natural habitats, aiming to introduce viewers to the beauty of birdwatching. Over the course of the series, they travel to various picturesque locations, including remote West Cornwall, where they search for the elusive chough, and North Norfolk, where they engage in a humorous “wild goose chase” to spot the rare “booming” bittern in the Somerset Levels.
West, 59, has been an avid birdwatcher for over 20 years, and he brings his wealth of experience to the show, hoping to instill a sense of wonder in his friend Adrian. "Birdwatching is often described as a waiting game," West explained, adding that it opens the door to conversations about life, loss, and personal growth. In his words, "Old friends. New adventures. Samuel West and Adrian Edmondson take you birdwatching across the British Isles in a stunning new three-part series." The program blends the tranquility of nature with the warmth of friendship, as the two actors share personal stories and insights throughout their journeys.
West’s connection to the outdoors is deeply rooted in his family history. He credits his mother, the renowned actress Prunella Scales, for igniting his love of nature. "I inherited a love of the outdoors from my mother. She was brought up in the country. We always enjoyed walking together, and she was a great gardener," he said. He also attributes his passion for birdwatching to his uncle, a soldier who transitioned from hunting birds to observing them. "He used to shoot birds, but then he stopped shooting them and started watching them, which is the right way round. It just became a thing," West recalled.
Samuel West was born in Hammersmith, London, and is the elder son of Prunella Scales and actor Timothy West, who is also well-known for his stage performances and his portrayal of King Edward VII in the television series Edward the Seventh. Tragically, West experienced the loss of both parents within a year of each other; his father passed away in November 2024 at the age of 90, and his mother, who had been living with vascular dementia, died in October 2025 at the age of 93.
In a poignant reflection on his parents’ passing, West shared with The Telegraph that their absence has significantly altered his perspective on life. "When two such big trees fall on your horizon, you can see much farther, but everything looks different, and you're not quite sure how it looks different. You have to get out there and find out," he said. This sentiment resonates throughout Sam & Ade Go Birding, where nature serves as a backdrop for exploring themes of friendship, loss, and personal discovery.
The series highlights the beauty of the British countryside and examines into the importance of companionship. As West and Edmondson navigate their birdwatching adventures, they share laughter, culinary experiences, and heartfelt discussions that reveal their personal journeys. The show a delightful mix of humor and introspection, appealing to both birdwatching enthusiasts and those seeking a heartwarming narrative.
Fans of West’s work in All Creatures Great and Small are likely to find this new series a satisfying continuation of his exploration of the natural world, albeit in a different format. The actor’s passion for birdwatching is infectious, and his enthusiasm is evident as he guides Edmondson through the intricacies of spotting and identifying various bird species.
In addition to the stunning visuals and engaging content, Sam & Ade Go Birding also highlights the importance of preserving natural habitats and appreciating the environment. As West and Edmondson wander through the picturesque landscapes of the UK, they remind viewers of the beauty that exists in nature and the need to protect it.
As the series progresses, audiences can expect to see more of West’s personal reflections and insights into his family life. The bond he shared with his parents, both of whom were influential figures in the acting world, has shaped his career and personal identity. West has often expressed how performing alongside his parents was a cherished experience, having collaborated with them on various projects throughout his career.
Notably, Samuel West and his brother Joseph portrayed the young sons of King Edward VII in Edward the Seventh, a role played by their father. This rich family legacy in the arts has undoubtedly influenced West’s approach to his craft and his appreciation for storytelling.
As viewers tune into Sam & Ade Go Birding, they will witness the beauty of the British Isles and the depth of human connection that can be found in the simple act of birdwatching. With each episode, West and Edmondson invite audiences to join them on this heartfelt adventure, reminding us all of the joys of nature and friendship.
For those interested in exploring the world of birdwatching or simply enjoying a heartfelt narrative, Sam & Ade Go Birding promises to deliver both. The series airs on Channel 5, and its blend of humor, nature, and personal stories is sure to resonate with viewers looking for a comforting escape.