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Abberton Reservoir Nature Reserve and Visitor Centre
Essex Eastern Counties
Church Rd, Layer de la Haye Tel. 01206 738172 Open: year round, daily except Mon, 9am-5pm; closed Christmas and Boxing Day Nature reserve located by reservoir; designated Site of Special Scientific Interest; bird watching with five hides; shop; parking
Abbotsbury Swannery
Dorset South-west Counties
New Barn Road, Abbotsbury Nr Weymouth DT3 4JG Tel. 0 1305 871 858 Natural wildlife habitat of colonies of nesting mute swans with paths through the coastal area; first established by monks in 1040s; swans fed at noon and 4pm daily; mid May-late June cygnets hatch; tea-room; shop; parking Web: Abbotsbury Swannery
Acton Scott Historic Working Farm
Shropshire West Midlands
Wenlock Lodge, Acton Scott Church Stretton Signed from A49 near Church Stretton Tel. 0 1694 781 307 Open: mid April-first week Nov; 10am-5pm Wed-Sun, from 1-5pm on Tue; closed Mon Demonstrates life on a Shropshire upland farm at the turn of the 20th century; shire horses, farmyard and field animals; milking and butter churning; demonstrations; weekly displays by blacksmith and other craftsmen; yearly special events such as sheep-shearing, lambing, cider making and steam powered threshing; picnic area; self-serve cafe; shop; holiday self-catering houses; bed and breakfast; camping; parking For photos and full details see our article Acton Scott Historic Working Farm Web: Acton Scott Historic Working Farm
Aira Force Waterfall
Cumbria North-west Counties
A592/A5091, off western shore of Ullswater 7 miles south of Penrith Car Parks: Aira Force and Glencoyne Bay National Trust property; information boards; tearoom nearby at Watermillock; walks up the hill beside the river lead to small waterfall; set in 12,782 acres of fell, woodland and farmland
Aldenham Country Park
Hertfordshire Eastern Counties
Elstree Tel. 020 8953 9602 Open: Nov-end March, 9am-4pm; April and Oct, 9am-5pm; May-end Sep, 9am-6pm Rare breeds farm; woodland trails; lakeside walks; playground; parking fee charged; picnic area; refreshments
Anderton Boat Lift
Cheshire North-west Counties
Lift Lane Anderton Northwich, Cheshire CW9 6FW Tel. 0 1606 786 777; for fast track ticket phone 0 1606 872 868 Open: 10am-5pm, some days 11am-4pm, closed various days (mostly Dec and Jan), days open vary greatly so best to check the website Known as the ‘Cathedral of the Canals’ the boat lift was built in 1875; boat trips to Northwich town swing bridge and return (30-40 minutes); river trips; interactive exhibition, café, shop, picnic areas Web: Anderton Boat Lift
Anglian Water Birdwatching Centre
Rutland East Midlands
Egleton Nature Reserve; Egleton Tel : 0 1572 770651 Open: daily except Christmas and Boxing Day Internationally famous nature reserve; environmental display; viewing gallery; 22 bird hides (fee charged for use) and nature trails with experts to help with identification; home of Anglian Water Osprey project; famous for its tree sparrows; parking Web: Rutland County Council
Ashridge Estate
Hertfordshire Eastern Counties
Ringshall, Berkhamsted Between Northchurch and Ringshall, just off B4506; between the A5 south of Dunstable and the A41 Tel. 01442 851227 Open: daily, all year; visitor centre open from end March-end Oct, 1-5pm, weekdays; also open weekends during summer Estate owned by National Trust; woodland, common, and downland walks; Ivinghoe Beacon gives views over countryside; shop, tearoom; car park at Steps Hill
Askham Bog Nature Reserve
Yorkshire North-east Counties
Two miles south-west of York city centre From eastbound A64, take A1036, follow the road to traffic lights; turn left into the car park just before the next set of lights Tel. NA Open: daily, year round Ancient relict fen and bog flora and fauna; dam with beavers; woodlands with roe deer; wetland plants include great fen sedge, bog myrtle, water violet and gingerbread sedge; in winter large flocks of redpoll and siskin; summer breeding woodcock and lesser spotted woodpeckers; car park
Attenborough Nature Reserve and Centre
Nottinghamshire East Midlands
Barton Lane, Attenborough, Nottinghamshire, NG9 6DY off the A6005 between Beeston and Long Eaton Tel. 0115 9721777 Open: Centre on Mon-Fri, 10am-5pm; Sat-Sun from 9am-6pm; reserve open daily 7am-dusk; café until 4.30 weekdays and 5.30 weekends Site of Special Scientific Interest; reserve consists of 145 hectares of flooded gravel pits and islands; habitat for wide range of plants, birds and other wildlife; important site for winter wildfowl: shoveler and diving ducks, mallard, teal, and wigeon; education, visitor, and conference facilities; café, shop, displays Web: Attenborough Nature Centre
Ayres Visitor Centre
Isle of Man
Ayres Nature Reserve; signposted on Ballaghennie Rd west of Bride Tel. 01624 801 985 Open: May-Sep, daily except Mon Displays of local flora and fauna, books, gifts; nature trail through coastal sand dunes; carpark; operated by Manx Wildlife Trust
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Bardsea Country Park
Cumbria North-west Counties
On the A5087 at Bardsea, Ulverston Tel. NA Open: open countryside Coast and woods area extending from Wadhead Hill to Sea Wood; views across Morecambe Bay to Lancashire coast; seabirds; picnic areas; walks in woodland of oak, ash, and wild cherry; boulders dating from the Ice Age
Basildon Park
Berkshire South-east Counties
Lower Basildon, Reading Tel. 0118 984 3040 Open: house, mid March-end Oct, Wed-Sun, noon-5pm; a few days in Dec (check NT website), Wed-Sun, noon-4pm; grounds and restaurant, Wed-Sun, 11am-5pm; shop same days, times vary National Trust property; 18th century Palladian mansion with plasterwork and staircase, furniture and paintings; 19th century pleasure grounds, parkland with woodland walks; picnic area; restaurant; parking
Bempton Cliffs RSPB Reserve
Yorkshire North-east Counties
Near Bridlington on Yorkshire’s east coast On cliff road from Bempton (B1229); in the village turn north at White Horse pub for one mile (brown tourist signs) Tel. 0 1262 851 179 Open: reserve open at all times; Visitor Centre open daily, March-Oct, 10am-5pm; Nov-Feb, 9.30am-4 pm; closed Christmas week. England’s largest seabird colony with 200,000 seabirds that include puffins, gannets, guillemots, and kittiwakes; cliff top trail with five viewpoints looking over the sea and chalk cliffs; guided walks available; spring and summer best visiting times; parking--fee charged, picnic area
Bishop’s Waltham Moors Nature Reserve
Hampshire South-east Counties
Bishop’s Waltham
Tel. 0 1703 456 484
Open: not given
Flower rich wet meadows and fen with springs and mill pond
Blacktoft Sands RSPB Reserve
Yorkshire North-east Counties
Located by the Humber Estuary Off minor road through Reedness, Whitgift and Ousefleet towards Adlingfleet; marked with brown tourist signs. Tel. 01484 861 148 Open: daily, 9am-9m or dusk if earlier RSPB reserve with six hides overlooking lagoon; over 270 species of birds; tidal reedbed is breeding ground for bearded tits, marsh harriers, avocets, and bitterns; wintering ducks; tree sparrows, whitethroats; hundreds of species of rare and specialist insects; six guided walks through the reserve; parking; picnic area
Bolderwood Deer Sanctuary
Hampshire South-east Counties
Short distance from Bolderwood car park in the New Forest
Tel. NA
Open: open site
Viewing platform for fallow deer on a meadow; walks; picnic area
Bolton Abbey Estate
Yorkshire North-east Counties
Off A59 between Skipton and Harrogate, Wharfedale Tel. 0 1756 718 009 (estate office—Mon-Fri) Open: estate open year round, attractions varying times Over 80 miles of footpaths in moorland, woodland, and riverside walks; riverside picnic sites; nature trails and wildlife. Strid car park: access to nature trails, children’s trails, shop, exhibition, Christmas trees, oak woodland. Sandholme riverside car park: Strid Wood nature trails entrance, nearby restaurant, café shop, 20 minute walk to the Strid with viewpoint of river Wharfe at narrow gorge. The Priory: ruins of 12th century priory and in use parish church; Barden Tower: ruined fortified dwelling with tea-room in adjacent 15th century priest’s house. Bolton Abbey village: shop, post office, tea-room. Fishing available Web: Bolton Abbey Estate
Borrans Park
Cumbria North-west Counties
Ambleside, LA22 0EN, off the A591 Tel. NA Open: open site Park with views over the lake and fells; picnic area; site of Roman road and fort called Galava; interpretation information on the fort
Botley Wood Nature Reserve
Hampshire South-east Counties
Between Wickham and Titchfield Tel. 0 1329 662 145 Open: phone for further information Extensive footpaths; local greenway; rich in insect life
Box Hill
Surrey South-east Counties
The Old Fort, Box Hill Rd, Tadworth One mile north-east of Dorking; 1.5 miles south of Leatherhead Tel. 0 1306 885 502 Open: countryside open site; shop and information centre open daily, April-end Oct, 11am-5pm, Oct-end Dec and Jan-end March, until 4pm; snacks daily year round, varying times National Trust property; part of the North Downs; chalk grassland with over a dozen species of orchid; butterflies; rare box trees; walking paths; views; shop; information centre; snacks; mountain bike hire; guided walks; car park
Bradgate Country Park and Visitor Centre
Leicestershire East Midlands
Bradgate Park, Newtown Linford Tel. 0 116 236 2713 Open: park daily until dusk; Visitor Centre open in summer Tue-Sun, noon-5pm; in winter weekends only, 1-4pm Leicestershire’s largest country park (former hunting park) with grass, bracken, tracks, trees, 146 acres of ancient woodland, herds of red and fallow deer; river Lin valley; folly “Old John Tower”. Extensive ruins of red brick Tudor Bradgate House, birthplace of Lady Jane Grey; displays on the park at the visitor centre (book and gift shop, café). Pay car park; shop at Newton Linford car park; picnic area; refreshments; guided walks and tours throughout season.
Brimham Rocks
Yorkshire North-east Counties
Off B6265 near Summerbridge Tel. 01423 780688 Open: site all year, daily, 8am-dusk; exhibition, 11am-5pm June-end Sep, weekends in Oct; Sun in Nov and Dec National Trust property; ice age and time have eroded gritstone to create hundreds of boulders in interesting shapes; views over Nidderdale
Broadway Tower and Country Park
Worcestershire West Midlands
1.5 miles east of Broadway Tel. 01386 852390 Open: April-Oct, daily, 10.30am-5pm; Nov-March, Sat and Sun, 11am-3pm 1790s tower building with exhibition; 35 acres of parkland, picnic area and adventure playground for children
Brockhampton Estate and Lower Brockhampton
Herefordshire West Midlands
Greenfields, Bringsty Two miles east of Bromyard, off the A44 Tel. 01885 488 099 (info line); 01885 482077 Open: estate open daily year round during daylight hours; house open March-mid March weekends, noon-4pm; mid March-end March, Wed-Sun, noon-4pm; April-end Sep, Wed-Sun, noon-5pm; Oct, noon-4pm, Wed-Sun; BH Mon, noon-5pm National Trust property; 1000 acres of farmland and 700 acres of woodland with walks, ruined chapel, wildlife, woodland sculptures; black and white gatehouse; 14th century moated manor house with medieval great hall, minstrel’s gallery; picnic area; tea-room
Brockhole: Lake District National Park Visitor Centre
Cumbria North-west Counties
Brockhole, halfway between Ambleside and Windermere on the A591 Tel: 0 1539 446 601 Open: daily year round except 25 Dec; visitor centre and shop, in winter until 4pm, 10am-5pm; gardens and playground, 10am-dusk, in winter 8.30am-7pm grounds, daily, year round, dawn-6pm; house and shop, June-Oct, 10am-4.30pm; Oct-May, Exhibitions on the park; AV show; café; shop; picnic area; landscaped grounds; adventure playground; parking--fee charged Web: Brockhole, Lake District National Park Visitor Centre
Brockholes Nature Reserve
Lancashire North-west Counties
Near Samlesbury, at junction 31 of M6 Tel. 0 1772 872 000 Open: April-end Oct, 10am-5pm; Nov-March, 10am-4pm; closed 25 Dec Lancashire Wildlife Trust wetland; ancient woodland; hay meadow; wetland areas; exhibition area; walking trails; home to lapwings, sand martins, little ringed plover; kingfishers, whimbrels, skylarks and many more; floating visitor centre; shop; play area; restaurant; picnic tables; local food store; special events; parking charge Web: Brockholes
Brocks Hill Country Park and Visitor Centre
Leicestershire East Midlands
Washbrook Lane, Oadby Tel. 0116 257 2888 Open: year round, Mon-Fri, 10am-5pm, on Sat and Sun until 4pm; open BH 67 acres of woodland, ponds, and wildflower meadows; café; environmentally friendly building design.
Brownsea Island
Dorset South-west Counties
Tel. 01202 707744 Open: 3rd week March-third week July and Sep, 10am-5pm, daily; until 6pm from 3rd week July-end Aug; Oct, 10am–4pm Island in Poole Harbour; National Trust property; woodland and heath; pinewoods, shoreline, lagoon; red squirrels, deer, and wading birds. Dorset Wildlife Trust manages nature reserve (entrance fee) on the island; bird hides, nature trail; visitor centre; shop; cafe. Scout and Guide heritage trail and centre; ferry and landing charges.
Burton Mere Wetlands
Cheshire North-west Counties
off A540 outside Burton village; nearest town is Neston Tel. 0 151 353 8478 Open: daily; reserve, 9am-9pm or dusk; reception, 9.30am-5pm RSPB property; remote location; fully accessible 900m path by mere; nature trails; hides; black tailed godwit, buzzard, linnet, kingfisher, little egret; car park; drinks; picnic area; special events
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Calf of Man
Isle of Man
The Sound
Tel. 01624 832 339
Open: April-Sep, cruises from 10am, weather permitting other times.
Daily boat trips to this island, no facilities on the island.
Castle Eden Dene National Nature Reserve
Durham North-east Counties
South of Peterlee, between the A19 (signposted) and A1086 roads also signposted from Peterlee town centre Tel. NA Open: not given Site of special scientific interest and national nature reserve along heritage coast; largest area of semi natural woodland in North-east England; yew, oak, and ash trees; rocky outcrops and steep cliffs; birds include woodcocks, sparrowhawks, thrushes, redwing, and nuthatches; 450 species of plants including primrose, wild garlic, wood anemones, mosses, ferns, and bluebells; roe deer, fox and other mammals; car park
Charmouth Heritage Coast Centre
Dorset South-west Counties
Lower Sea Lane, Charmouth Dorset DT6 6LL (three miles from Lyme Regis) Tel. 01297 560772 Open: 10.30am-4pm; in winter open Wed-Sun only; call to confirm as school groups sometimes take over Interactive computer and hands-on displays, fossil information and identification, film on fossils; events during the year include fossil hunting weekends, tidal pool explorations, and other marine activities Web: Charmouth Heritage Coast Centre
Cheddar Gorge
Somerset South-west Counties
Northwest of town of Cheddar Tel. NA Open: open countryside Largest gorge in UK, reaching 500 ft in parts; wildlife include peregrine, buzzard, tawny owl, kestrel, green woodpecker, raven, dormouse, clouded yellow butterflies, greater horseshoe bat, great crested newt; road at base and footpaths along top of the gorge
Chesil Beach Centre
Dorset South-west Counties
Portland Beach Road Tel. 0 1305 760 579 Eighteen mile long shingle beach with nature reserve information centre; lagoon a site of Special Scientific Interest; 300 different species of migrating birds See our photos and more information at Portland and Chesil Beach
Chew Valley Nature Reserve
Somerset South-west Counties
Chew Lake, B3114 south from Chew Stoke; left for West Harptree; head north-east on A368 Open: not given on Avon Wildlife Trust website Reed beds, wintering wildfowl; reed warblers, sedge warblers, shoveler, gadwall, teal and tufted duck; great crested grebe, cormorant, winter gull and many more; dragonflies in summer; visitor centre; café; car parking at Herriot’s Bridge
Chislehurst Caves
Kent South-east Counties
Old Hill, Chislehurst Near Chislehurst station and Bickley Arms pub Tel. 020 8467 3264 Open: daily except 25 Dec and 1 Jan, Wed-Sun, by 45 min guided tour only, leave on the hour from 10am-4pm Lamp lit tour includes tunnels used as WWII shelters; attractions include Caves Church, Druid Altar, Haunted Pool and much more; shop; restaurant; parking; private tours available Web: Chislehurst Caves
Chorlton Water Park
Greater Manchester North-west Counties
Maitland Ave, Chorlton, Manchester Tel. 0161 881 5639 Lake with canoeing, windsurfing, fishing; picnic and woodland areas
Churchtown Farm Community Nature Reserve
Cornwall South-west Counties
On border of Saltash Open: countryside, open site Cornwall Wildlife Trust Reserve member; in Tamar Valley Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty; guided walks; wildlife habitats; views up the Lynher Estuary
Clare Castle Country Park
Suffolk Eastern Counties
Malting Lane, Clare Tel. 0 1787 277 491 Open: park is open site History trail of the park that has remains of 13th century stone castle keep on 70 ft high motte, inner and outer baileys; visitor centre; former railway station and goods yard with displays; views of Clare town from castle; nature trail; parking
Clare Castle Country Park
Suffolk Eastern Counties
Malting Lane, Clare Tel. 0 1787 277 491 Open: park is open site History trail of the park that has remains of 13th century stone castle keep on 70 ft high motte, inner and outer baileys; visitor centre; former railway station and goods yard with displays; views of Clare town from castle; nature trail; parking
Close Sartfield Nature Reserve
Isle of Man
Reached from A3 turn onto B9 between Ballaugh village and Sulby Glen, take 3rd tun on right and follow rd for one mile, entrance and car park on track on the right. Part of Ballaugh Curragh wetland; bird hide, reached by paths and boardwalks near entrance; landscape of meadows and willow carr; breeding species of birds Read more in our article Manx Wildlife Trust Nature Reserves
Clumber Park
Nottinghamshire East Midlands
Clumber Park, near Worksop Tel. 01909 476592 or 01909 544917 (info line) Open: park, all year, daily, dawn to dusk; kitchen garden, shop, restaurant, various times and days depending on month of year, check National Trust website for full details; closed 25 Dec and concert day in August National Trust property; 3800 acres of parkland, woods; picnic areas; cycle rental; walled kitchen garden, greenhouses growing old varieties of vegetables; Gothic revival church; lake; largest lime tree avenue in Europe; grassland; Discovery Centre with interactive exhibitions; special events; restaurant; shop; parking
Cogges Manor Farm
Oxfordshire South-east Counties
Cogges Manor, Church Lane, Witney Tel. 0 1993 772 602 Open: see website for full details as not given for the entire year Historic farmyard; working farm; 13th century manor house; cooking demonstrations on weekends and BH; Victorian rural life portrayed; play area; farm machinery; farm animals; walled garden; café; shop; parking Web: Cogges Manor Farm
Cooildarry Nature Reserve
Isle of Man
Two entrances: one opposite road to Glen Wyllin campsite on Peel to Kirk Michael road, second on TT course, one mile south-east of Kirk Michael.
Wooded valley, part of Glen Wyllin with waterfalls, birds, and wildflowers.
Corfe Common
Dorset South-west Counties
Corfe Tel. 0 1929 480 609 (National Trust Education Office) Open: year round, daily Dorset’s largest working common with varied habitats; leaflet Exploring Corfe Common available from National Trust shop in the village
Cotswold Farm Park
Gloucestershire South-west Counties
Guiting Power, near Stow-on-the-Wold Tel. 01451 850307 Open: mid March-first week Sep, 10.30am-5pm, daily; in Oct, on weekends Rare breeds on display--cattle, sheep, horses, pigs, goats; shop; walks; caravan and camping site; play barn for children Website: Cotswold Farm Park
Cotswold Wildlife Park and Gardens
Oxfordshire South-east Counties
Two miles south of Burford, on the A361 Tel. 0 1993 823 006 Open: year round, daily; Oct-Feb,10am-5pm; during British Summer time, open till 6pm Set in 160 acres of parkland and gardens around a listed Victorian Manor House; four sections include birds, primates and small mammals, large mammals and farmyard, and reptile and insect house; adopt an animal scheme; restaurant; shop; parking Web: Cotswold Wildlife Park and Gardens
Creswell Crags
Nottinghamshire East Midlands
On the B6042 between the A60 Worksop-Mansfield road and the A616 Tel. 0 1909 720 378—phone ahead to find out times of cave tours and to book a place Open: Museum and Education Centre Feb-Oct, 10.30am-4.30pm, other months Sun only Prehistoric caves in a limestone gorge Web: Cresswell Crags
Cronk y Bing Nature Reserve
Isle of Man
Near the southern tip of the Ayres, on A10; take the track to the beach south of Lhen Bridge, car parking at seaward end of track. Wide dune area and shoreline; birds
Crowlink and Birling Gap
East and West Sussex South-east Counties
Five miles west of Eastbourne, south of Friston via East Dean to Beachy Head road linking A259 and B2103, E Sussex Tel. 0 1323 871 318 Open: open countryside National Trust property; in South Downs Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty; white cliffs of Seven Sisters; walks across downland with coast views; birds, butterflies; remains of Iron Age rampart and Bronze Age barrows; information boards; car park off A259 south of Friston Church and also at Birling Gap via B2013, NT members free, small charge for others
Croxteth Hall Country Park
Merseyside/Liverpool North-west Counties
Five miles north-east of Liverpool city centre; follow signs for the A580 to St Helens Tel. 0151 228 5311 Open: 10am-5pm, shorter hours in winter 500 acre country park; farm and garden Website: Croxteth Hall Country Park
Cudmore Grove Country Park
Essex Eastern Counties
East Mersea Tel. 01206 383868 Open: year round, daily, 8am-dusk Long sandy beach adjoining large area of clifftop, grassland, and marshes; designated nature reserve. Information room with refreshments on Sundays in the summer; ranger guided walks.
Cumberland Bird of Prey Centre
Cumbria North-west Counties
Thurstonfield, about 6 miles west of Carlisle Tel. 0 1228 576 158 Open: for activity days and courses only; phone first or visit website Provides falconry and hawking courses, activities, corporate events, shows, and displays Web: Cumberland Bird of Prey Centre
Curraghs Wildlife Park
Isle of Man
Ballaugh Tel. 01624 897 323 Open: mid April-end Oct, 10am-6pm, weekends during winter, 10am-4pm 100 species of animals and birds from around the world in natural wetland habitats; walk-through aviary; children's farm; nature trails; lakeside cafe; ark; play area; parking
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Dalby Forest Centre
Yorkshire North-east Counties
Low Dalby village Near Thornton-le-Dale Tel. 01751 460295 Open: daily, year round, 9.30am-4pm Forestry Commission centre; displays and exhibitions about the moors; Astronomical Centre and Observatory; shop; restaurant
Daneshill Lakes Local Nature Reserve
Nottinghamshire East Midlands
Daneshill Rd, Lound near Retford Tel. 0 1777 248 274 Open: open site 87 acre lake and woodland reserve with fishing and sailing
Devil’s Dyke Estate
East and West Sussex South-east Counties
Five miles north-west of Brighton, West Sussex Tel. 0 1243 814 554 Open: open countryside National Trust property; largest chalkland combe in Britain; seven miles long-from Wolstonbury Hill to Newtimber Hill to Saddlescombe farm and Fulking Escarpment; in Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty; views north and south; downland butterflies and plants; many archaeological features from bronze age burial mounds to 1800s lime kilns; walks in woodland and open grassland; self guided trails with leaflets available in car park; parking free to NT members, otherwise small charge
Donkey Sanctuary
Devon South-west Counties
Slade House Farm, Sidmouth
Tel. 0 1395 578 222
Open: daily, 9am-dusk; closed first two weeks Jan; nature centre open April-Sep
Registered charity with aim of protecting donkeys and promoting their welfare; over 500 donkeys on site; visitors meet the donkeys; field walks; visitor centre; shop; restaurant; parking; free
Web: Donkey Sanctuary
Dunstable Downs Countryside Centre and Whipsnade Estate
Bedfordshire Eastern Counties
Whipsnade Rd, Kensworth, Dunstable Between the B4540 and the B4541 South-west of the A5 at Dunstable/Luton Tel. 01582 608489 Open: all year; countryside centre open end March-end Oct, Tue-Sun, 10am-5pm; Sun, 10am-6pm National Trust property; 510 acres of grass, farm land, walks, prehistoric burial mounds and earthworks
Dunwich Heath Coastal Centre and Beach
Suffolk Eastern Counties
Dunwich, several miles north of Saxmundham On minor roads off B1125 One mile south of Dunwich, signposted from the A12 Tel. 0 1728 648 505 Open: daily dawn to dusk National Trust property; one of Suffolk’s most important nature conservation areas; walks; bird reserve of Minsmere; observation room in converted coastguard cottages; tea-room; shop
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Earystane Nature Reserve
Isle of Man
Follow A7 from Ballabeg or Ballagawne; turn at Colby onto A27 leading north uphill towards Ronague and the Round Table; pass Colby Glen on your left; at sharp right-hand bend beyond the last houses, a road sign points to Earystane on the left; wooden entrance gate to eserve is on right hand side of this minor road; do not park where the road is narrow, on the Earystane road, or in field gateways; park in the wide section of the A27 two hundred metres east of the site, near the waterworks. Boardwalk and bird hides; plants
Easton Farm Park
Suffolk Eastern Counties
Easton Tel. 0 1728 746 475 Open: Feb and Oct and half terms, daily, 10:30am-6pm; April-end Sep, Tue-Sun, 10.30am-6pm; open on Mon except during July and Aug 35 acre Victorian 'Model Farm' including a dairy; free pony rides, pet and feed animals; walks along River Deben; vintage working machinery; oldest working portable steam engine in the country; tea room; shop; holiday cottages; parking Web: Easton Farm Park
Elvaston Castle Country Park
Derbyshire East Midlands
Borrowash Rd (B5010) Elvaston Tel. 01332 571342 Open: year round, grounds 9am to dusk; old English garden open in the summer 10am-4pm, winter until 3.30pm—call first to check; car park open 9am-8pm summer and until 5pm in winter; shop open 11am-4.30pm daily from Easter-Oct and weekends from Nov-March. Former home of earls of Harrington--building open once in a while; 250 acre country park and local nature reserve with ponds and reedbed, wet woodland and brook; waymarked walks; bridleway; picnic area; visitor centre with shop; bird hides; events; parking fee
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Fairburn Ings RSPB Reserve
Yorkshire North-east Counties
Fairburn village (A1246); turn right at Wagon and Horses pub; at T-junction turn right; reserve is 1.5 miles on the left. Close to Castleford, West Yorkshire in Aire Valley; five miles from Leeds Tel. 0 1977 628 191 Open: daily, 9am-5pm (main car park); other car park always open; Visitor Centre open 9.30am-5pm weekends and BH, other days 9.30am-4.30pm; closed 25/26 Dec RSPB reserve especially designed for families with pond dipping, child friendly events, hides, and walks; three trails with variety of habitat spotlight wildlife and birds including kingfisher, green sandpiper, chiffchaff, little ringed plover, reed warbler; winter birds include smews, goldeneyes, and goosanders; summer breeding wading birds include redshanks, snipe, and lapwings; boardwalk projects over the lake; picnic area; shop; drinks available
Fairlands Valley Park
Hertfordshire Eastern Counties
Six Hills Way, Stevenage Tel. 0 1438 353 241 Open: open parkland, attractions open various times 120 acres of parkland with watersports, dinghies, windsurfing, powerboat courses; walking; play area; café; parking; picnic area; wildlife and wildfowl; special events
Falconry Centre UK
Yorkshire North-east Counties
In grounds of Sion Hill Hall Kirby Wiske, near Thirsk Tel. 0 1845 587 522 Open: daily, March-end Oct, 10.30am-5pm, flying displays at 11:30am, 1:30 and 3.30pm Bird of Prey and Conservation Centre; birds on view include eagles, owls, vultures, falcons, and hawks; falconry courses offered; parking; tea-room Falconry Centre
Far Ings National Nature Reserve
Lincolnshire East Midlands
South bank of Humber estuary One mile west of Barton-upon-Humber Tel. 0 1652 637 055 Open: Visitor Centre, Easter-end Oct, Sat, Sun, Wed and BH, 10am-4pm; Thu-Fri, 1-4pm; Nov-Easter, Sat, Sun, Wed, 1-4pm 200 acre reserve with freshwater reedbeds and wildlife that includes bittern, marsh harrier, bearded tit, and water vole; Far Ings Visitor and Education Centre has views of the nearby pit and River Humber; teaching areas; bird hide; free parking; purpose built picnic areas; shop
Fell Foot Park
Cumbria North-west Counties
Halfway between Ambleside and Windermere On the A591 beside Windermere lake Tel. 015395 31273 Open: park, year round, daily, 9am-5pm or dusk if earlier; café, April-end Oct, daily, 10am-5pm; rowboats for hire April-end Oct, daily, 11am-4pm National Trust park; Victorian lawns and garden; Victorian boathouses have tea-room and shop; rowboats for hire April-end Oct, daily, 11am-5pm; summer activity programme; picnic area; adventure playground; free admission
Ferry Farm Country Park
Nottinghamshire East Midlands
Boat Lane, Hoveringham Off the A612, Nottingham to Southwell road between Lowdham and Thurgarton Tel. 0115 966 4512 Email: Ferry Farm Country Park Open: mid March-end Sep, Tue-Sun; also open holiday Mon, 10am-5.30pm; Oct-mid March, Thu-Sun Indoor barn, farmyard, adventure playground; restaurant; shop Web: Ferry Farm Country Park
Fingringhoe Wick Nature Reserve
Essex Eastern Counties
South Green Road, Fingringhoe, Colchester Sign posted off B1025 Colchester to Mersea Island Road Tel. 01206 729678 Open 9am-5pm Tue-Sun Bird watching; grassland, heathland, and water habitats; events; shop
Folly Farm Wildlife Discovery Centre
Somerset South-west Counties
A368 towards Bishop Sutton, then past turning to Chew Magna, take next small turning on left just before reaching Stowey Open: not given on Avon Wildlife Trust website Housed in 17th century farm buildings; bats; butterflies include small tortoiseshell, gatekeeper, marbled white, and rare marsh fritillary; ancient coppiced woodland with primrose, bluebell, and early purple orchid; wildflowers include betony, ox-eye daisy, and heath spotted orchid; among the birds are nuthatch, buzzard, tawny owl, and great spotted woodpecker; day and residental courses include gardening, herbal medicine, and wildlife film-making; guided nature walks; car park
Formby Beach
Merseyside/Liverpool North-west Counties
Victoria Rd, one mile from Freshfield, Formby Tel. 0 1704 878 591 Open: year round, daily, dawn-dusk; car park, winter and autumn, 9am-4pm, April-end Oct, until 5.30pm National Trust property; sand dunes; beach (must go over dunes to reach); information boards; woodland; guided walks; picnic areas; special events; red squirrel walk; asparagus walk; car park—long queues in peak season
Fowlmead Country Park
Kent South-east Counties
Sholden, on A258 two miles from Deal Tel. 01634 899910 Open: information not posted on website Cycling, birdwatching, nature walks; Fossil Wall is a unique site for geologists and fossil hunters, revealing a glimpse of life on earth 310 million years ago Web: Fowlmead
Fradley Junction
Staffordshire West Midlands
Airewas, Burton upon Trent Tel. 01827 252 000 Open: daily all year; café daily 10am-4pm in winter, summer from 10am-5pm. Meeting point of Trent and Mersey and Coventry canals; nature reserve, walks, café; boat day hire; tourist information centre; pub; guided towpath walks; bird watching
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Gibraltar Point National Nature Reserve
Lincolnshire East Midlands
between Skegness and the estuary of the River Steeping Access points at Seacroft Esplanade at the southern end of Skegness and at two car parks on Gibraltar Road. Tel. 01754 898057 for Wash Study Centre; 01507 526667 for Lincolnshire Trust Open: April-end Oct, daily from 10am-5pm; Nov-end March, daily from 11am-4pm. Coastline renowned for wildlife; first declared a reserve in 1949; sand dunes, freshwater mere, and salt marsh; diverse fauna, 35 species of birds include plover and redshank; Visitor Centre has exhibitions with interactive features and state-of-art technology and map; hides. Residential facilities for visiting groups and educational facilities in the adjacent Wash Study Centre. Café, shop Web: Lincolnshire Trust
Gincase, The
Cumbria North-west Counties
Mawbray Hayrigg, Silloth on Solway, CA7 4LL Tel. 0 1697 332 020 Open: Feb-mid Dec, Tue-Sun, 10.30am–4.30pm; closed mid Dec-end Jan Craft barn; tea-room; gallery; farm park with rare poultry, lambs, rabbits, guinea pigs, and other traditional farm animals; playground Web: The Gincase
Go Ape Forest Adventure
Yorkshire North-east Counties
Dalby Forest and 15 other locations in the UK Tel. 0845 643 1726 Open: mid March-end Oct plus Feb half term and weekends in Nov and Dec; booking essential—through website or by phone Award-winning high wire forest adventure course of rope bridges, tarzan swings and zip slides set high up in Dalby forest tree tops; visit website for all locations Web: Go Ape
Great Notley Country Park and Discovery Centre
Essex Eastern Counties
Great Notely, Braintree
Open: country park, dawn-dusk daily; Discovery Centre times not given
Adventure play trails for children; country park; bistro; cycle hire; charge car-parking
Greenwich Park
London Greater London
Reached from London by Jubilee underground North Greenwich, then 188 bus; by DLR to Cutty Sark station or Greenwich station; buses and riverboats also available Open: park--6am to pedestrians, 7am to traffic, year round; teahouse--9am-8pm in summer, until 4pm in winter; St Mary’s Gate Café--9am-8pm in summer, in winter weekends only London’s oldest enclosed royal park with 180 acres; part of the World Heritage site and a Grade I listed landscape; chestnut avenues; location of the Prime Meridian and the Royal Observatory and museum; flower garden; boating lake; wilderness with deer; pavilion tea garden; children’s playground
Grizedale Park Visitor Centre
Cumbria North-west Counties
On minor road in the Grizedale forest, reached from the B5285 near Hawkshead Tel. visitor centre: 0 1229 860 010 Open: forest open site; visitor centre, Nov, Jan-end March, 10am-4.30pm; March-end first week July and second week Sep-end Oct, 10am-5pm; second week July-end Sep first weekend, 10am-5.30pm; Dec till 24th, 10am-4pm; check website for full details for some special days Visitor centre, tearoom, shop; playground; exhibition; waymarked trails; sculptures Web: Grizedale Park
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Hall Hill Farm
Durham North-east Counties
On B6296, Near Lanchester Tel. 0 1388 731 333 Open: daily June-mid Sep, 10.30am-5pm; selected times rest of year, view calendar on website Working farm; family attraction; indoor playbarn; outdoor play area; tractor and donkey rides; small animal petting; cafe; parking; shop; birthday parties Web. Hall Hill Farm
Ham Hill Country Park
Somerset South-west Counties
Stoke sub Hamdon Tel. 0 1935 823 617 (ranger’s office) Open: open countryside Walking and mountain biking; Iron Age hill fort; ancient Roman site; wildflower meadows; woodlands; site of geological interest; important fossils; views of south Somerset moors, Exmoor, and the Mendip hills; be aware of ticks, steep drops from old quarries and in summer a poison plant with upside down yellow blossoms causing severe skin problems; high car crime area
Ham Wall Wetland
Somerset South-west Counties
From village of Meare down Ashcott Road to Ashcott Corner where entrance is located Three miles west of Glastonbury in the Somerset levels and moors Tel.01458 860494 Open: countryside, open site RSPB wetland with over 200 hectares of reedbeds, wet scrub, and open water with woods and grassland on the edge; nature trails, viewing points, displays; events throughout the year; birds seen include bearded tit, Cetti’s warbler, gadwall, hobby, and starling; wading birds, owls, and roe deer at different times of year
Harrold-Odell Country Park
Bedfordshire Eastern Counties
Harrold-Odell Country Park Carlton Rd, Harrold Tel. 0 1234 720 016 Open: year round, open site 144 acres of countryside; Nature Reserve; two lakes; woodland; water meadows; Great Ouse river; walking; bird watching-160 species, ducks, geese; bats; wildlife; wild flowers; café; parking; picnic area Web: Harrold-Odell Country Park
Hatfield Forest
Essex Eastern Counties
Takeley, near Bishop's Stortford Signposted off the A120 Tel. 01279 870678 or 01279 874040 (info line) Open: forest, daily, all year, dawn to dusk; National Trust property; ancient royal hunting forest; ancient coppiced and pollarded trees; rare and specialized wildlife; Discovery Room has displays on countryside, wildlife, art and history of the area; miles of walks and nature trails; fishing on lake; woodland products for sale; cafe near lake (closed Feb-3rd week March); pay car park
Hawkstone Park and Historic Follies
Shropshire West Midlands
Weston-under-Redcastle, near Shrewsbury Tel. 01948 841 700 or 01948 841 777 Open: days, times vary greatly; go to website below and click on Admission Hours for full details 100 acres of 18th century countryside creation with ravines, arches, bridges, cliffs, woodlands, and caves; allow minimum half day to visit; tea-room; shop; visitor centre; if possible bring your own torch for tunnels and caves as limited number for hire Web: Hawkstone Park and Follies
Hay Bridge Nature Reserve
Cumbria North-west Counties
Low Hay Bridge, Bouth, Ulverston, LA12 8JG Rusland Valley, between Windermere and Coniston Tel. 0 1229 861 727 Open: by membership and also pre-arrangement with warden E-mail address for membership matters: Hay Bridge Membership E-mail address for reserve matters/study centre bookings: Study centre Habitats include woodland, pasture, open tarn, fen, raised bog, riverbank, and fell; wildlife includes red deer, roe deer, fox, otter, badger, brown hare, stoat, weasel, adder, grass snake, slow worm and common lizard; species of birds include tawny owl, green woodpecker, nuthatch, mistle thrush, hawfinch, stonechat, curlew, swallows, house martins, marsh warblers, and chiffchaffs; butterflies include pearl-bordered fritillary, green hairstreak, meadow brown, small white, red admiral, peacock and holly blue; bats; wildflowers; mosses; Study Centre with information, field guides, exhibits and species list Website: Hay Bridge Nature Reserve
High Head Sculpture Valley
Cumbria North-west Counties
High Head Farm, Ivegill, Carlisle Halfway between Penrith and Carlisle Tel/Fax: 0 1697 473 552 Open: 10.30am-5.00pm, daily except Wednesdays; closed 24 Dec-mid Jan Working dairy farm; tea-room; art gallery; life size sculptures in woodland valley; country walks; milking parlour; parking; charge for sculpture valley Web: High Head Sculpture Valley
High Woods Country Park
Essex Eastern Counties
Off Turner Rd, Colchester Tel. 01206 853588 Open: year round, 7am-10pm in summer; until 7pm in winter 300 acres of grassland, woodland, and wetland; visitor centre, shop, walks, trails, events; drinks when visitor centre is open.
Highland Cattle Centre
Northumberland North-east Counties
Dere St Farm near Stocksfield, Northumberland Access via B6309 Tel: 0 7968 865 591 Open: 10am-5pm, Tue-Sun, Easter-end Sep; Oct and Feb half term; other times by appointment Dedicated Highland Cattle centre on 59 acre working farm offers visitors opportunity to learn more about the cattle and other animals including pigs, goats, and rabbits; hands on experience: cows can be combed, lambs fed, and eggs collected from chickens; rare breed sheep, alpacas, llamas, and goat; guided meadow walks and special events; car park; picnic area; café; shop; children’s play area Website: Highland Cattle Centre
Hill Hole Quarry Nature Reserve
Leicestershire East Midlands
Hill Lane, Markfield Tel. 01455 238 141 Open: daily, dawn-dusk Hay meadow, woodland, heath grassland, water-filled quarry
Holme Open Farm
Cumbria North-west Counties
Sedbergh, on the A863 Tel 0 1539 620 654 Open: March-end Sep, Wed-Mon, daily, 11am-4pm Traditional sheep farm; 12 breeds of dales cattle; goats; poultry; baby animals for children to hold; farm work demonstrations; nature trail; evening badger watches; fishing; cafe; shop; camping; parking Web: Holme Open Farm
Honeysuckle Farm
Yorkshire North-east Counties
Bewholme Lane (off the B1244) Hornsea, E Yorkshire Tel. 0 1964 533 873 Open: 3rd week March-first weekend Sep, daily, 10am-5pm Shire horses, fish, chickens, play barn, baby animals, ice cream made on the farm; milking demonstratin at 1.30pm; farm shop selling ice cream; tea room serving light refreshments; parking Web: Honeysuckle Farm
Hop Farm Country Park
Kent South-east Counties
Paddock Wood, Kent. TN12 6PY Near Paddock Wood Kent, on the A228 Brown tourist signs from junction 4 of M20 or junction 5 of M25 onto A21 south; by train from London Charing Cross to Paddock Wood Tel. 0 1622 872 068 Open: daily, 10am-5pm Hop Story Museum; military museum; exhibitions; shire horse and animal farm; indoor and outdoor play areas; special events and holiday attractions; hands-on magic attraction; pottery and craft centre; garden shows; carousel and other fun fair rides; holiday weekends; restaurant; café; snack bar; shop; parking Web: Hop Farm Family Park
How Stean Gorge
Yorkshire North-east Counties
Lofthouse Pateley Bridge North Yorkshire HG3 5SF Tel: 01423 755666 In the heart of Nidderdale; trails through the gorge and Tom Taylor cave; restaurant and tearoom; bike hire.
Hundred Acre Wood
East and West Sussex South-east Counties
Ashdown Forest, near the village of Hartfield, East Sussex Follow the path through the woods to the site of Pooh Bridge made famous by the Winnie-the-Pooh books; in the village are shops selling Pooh memorabilia
Hylands House and Park
Essex Eastern Counties
Two miles from Chelmsford, A414 Tel. 0 1245 605 500 (house team office hours are Mon-Fri, 9am-5pm) Open: Sun, Mon, and BHs, 11am-6pm Grade II listed villa in 500 acre parkland and gardens; library, drawing room, banqueting room, Georgian cellar, exhibition on the house
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Ilam Park
Derbyshire East Midlands
Ilam near Ashbourne On the banks of the river Manifold Tel. 01335 350245 Open: park all year, daily; tearoom and shop from 11am-4pm, until 5pm on summer weekends Countryside walks; Youth Hostel in grounds; tearoom; shop; Learning and Discover Centre
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Kielder Water Forest Park
Northumberland North-east Counties
B6320 from Otterburn to Bellingham, follow brown signs to Kielder Water & Forest Park; map on website Tel. 0 1434 220 616 (Bellingham Tourist Information); Leaplish Waterside Park, 0 1434 251 000 Tower Knowe Visitor Centre 0 1434 240 436 Open: road through park open; attractions within park at various dates and times; check our article (link below) for specifics Reservoir with 27 miles of lakeshore; visitor centre; waterside park; boat trips; woodland walks; birds of prey; observatory; parking parking is £ per day;; self-catering; family venue for a week’s stay; special events; several eating venues; great for families For photos and more information see our articles Kielder Water Forest Park and Kielder Birds of Prey Centre for photos and more information Web: Visit Kielder
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Lake District Coast Aquarium
Cumbria North-west Counties
The Quay, Maryport Tel. 0 1900 817 760 Open: year round, daily, 10am-5pm, closed Dec. 25 and 26 Natural history of the Solway; Cumbrian and other sea creatures include manta rays, tub gurnards, sharks, eels, and 2000 other specimens (150 species) in 35 tanks; shop; café; car park Web: Lake District Coast Aquarium
Lake District Wildlife Park
Cumbria North-west Counties
Bassenthwaite Lake, Keswick, CA12 4 RD Brown tourist signs on A591 and A66 from end of Bassenthwaite Lake Tel. 0 17687 76239 Open: daily 10am- 5.30pm except closing at 4.30pm in winter; closed Dec 25 and Jan 1; last admission one hour before closing Large variety of animals including wild boar, zebra, boa constrictor, gibbons, otters; shop, tea-room; play areas; parking Web: Lake District Wildlife Park
Lakeland Bird of Prey Centre
Cumbria North-west Counties
Lowther by Penrith Tel./Fax: 0 1931 712 746 Open: April-Oct, daily British and foreign birds of prey include buzzards, kestrels, eagles, peregrines, and owls; flying displays; tea-room; craft shop; parking
Lakeland Maze Farm Park
Cumbria North-west Counties
Sedgwick, Kendal, LA8 0JH Tel. 0 15395 61760 Open: daily during school holidays, also weekends from April through September, 10am-5pm; maize open daily, 10am-6pm July-September; maize also open every Saturday night, 6pm-10pm in September Web: Lakeland Maize Farm Park
Lakeland Wildlife Oasis
Cumbria North-west Counties
Hale, Milnthorpe, LA7 7FE, on the A6 Tel. 0 1539 563 027 Open daily, year round, 10am-5pm; closed 25-26 Dec Working models; interactive displays; live animals includes starfish, snakes, chameleons, monkeys, flying foxes, and poison arrow frogs; projection microscopes to see marine life; butterfly hall; tropical hall with reptiles and birds; snakes; collections of bromeliads and other air plants; parking; café, snacks; shop; picnic area Web: Lakeland Wildlife Oasis
Lakes Aquarium
Cumbria North-west Counties
Lakeside, on the southern shore of Lake Windermere, off A590 Tel. 0 1539 530 153 Open: year round, daily, 9am-5pm, last admission 4pm; closed 25 Dec Multi-level freshwater with 30 displays using the latest technology; set up to follow a river from felltop to Morecambe Bay; each area-mountain stream, river, lake, seashore, and bay-is decorated with Lake District murals and uses sound effects; AV show; interactive displays; shop; café Web: Lakes Aquarium
Langley Park
Buckinghamshire South-east Counties
Opposite Black Park Off the A412 Slough-Uxbridge road Tel: 01753 511060 Open: 8.15am (year round)-4.30pm in Jan, Feb, Oct, Nov, Dec; March, April, May, Sep until 7.30pm; June, July, Aug until 8.30pm Estate made up of 130 acre historic Langley Park with ancient trees, arboretum and Temple Gardens with rhododendrons; horse-riding, cycling, walking; lake; picnic area; deer, fox and other wildlife; parking; for guided walks and map of trees visit the website Web: Langley Park
Leith Hill
Surrey South-east Counties
Leith Hill Lane, Holmbury St Mary, Dorking, Surrey One mile west of Coldharbour village Tel. 0 1306 711 777 Open: open countryside; tower open Oct-end March, weekends, 10am-3.30pm; April-end Oct, Wed, Fri, Sat, Sun, 10am-5pm National Trust property; highest point in south-east England; 18th century gothic tower; rhododendrons and bluebells in May and June; woodland, heath and farmland walks; parking; light refreshments at tower during its opening; parking
Liberty’s Owl Raptor & Reptile Centre
Hampshire South-east Counties
Crow Lane, Ringwood Tel. 0 1425 476487 Open: March-Oct, daily, 10am-5pm; last admission 4pm; Nov-Feb, weekends only 10am-4pm; Feb half term, open daily, 10am-4pm Birds of prey; daily flying displays; reptile house; cafe; shop; parking Web: Liberty Owl, Raptor, and Reptile Centre
Lodge Park and Sherborne Estate
Gloucestershire South-west Counties
Aldsworth near Cheltenham Approach via A40, three miles east of Northleach Tel. 01451 844130 Open: April-end Oct, Mon, Fri, and Sun, 11am-4pm, on Sat until 3pm; estate open all year daily National Trust property; 4000 acres of countryside with walks; historic grandstand building; shop; parking
Longshaw Estate
Derbyshire East Midlands
7.5 miles from Sheffield Next to A625 Sheffield-Hathersage road Also a carpark off the B6055 nearby Open: estate open all year, daily; visitor centre open daily April, July and Aug, 10.30am-5pm; Sep and Oct, Wed-Sun, 10.30am-5pm; Nov-March, weekends, 10.30am-4pm National Trust property; 1500 acres of open moorland and woodland with walks; wide variety of birds; program of events; tearoom, shop; visitor centre; visitor guide; Moorland Discovery Centre for education groups; Christmas tree sales; family activities
Lowther Parklands
Cumbria North-west Counties
Hackthorpe, five miles south of Penrith Tel. 01931 712577 Open: Easter and weekends until end of May; May-mid Sep, daily, 10am-6pm 150 acres, once an ancient deer park, of English Heritage Grade II listed parkland; play activities for children include rides, boating, adventure playgrounds, miniature railway, petting zoo, and putting green; peacocks; shop; refreshments; parking
Lulworth Park
Dorset South-west Counties
Parkland at Lulworth Cove near heritage coast and Durdle Door Tel. 0 1929 400 587 Open: Feb-Christmas, 10am-4pm daily Walks; coastline; beach; castle; castle house; chapel; pay parking Web: Lulworth Park
Lymington–Keyhaven RSPB Nature Reserve
Hampshire South-east Counties
Between the mouth of Lymington River and village of Keyhaven, New Forest National Park
Tel. NA
Open: daily year round
500 acres of lagoons; diverse and highly specialised fauna and flora, including rare species; little tern birds; circular walks
To download leaflet of reserve go to Nature Reserve leaflet
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Malham Estate and National Nature Reserve
Yorkshire North-east Counties
From Malham village 19 miles north-west of Skipton, north past Malham Tarn Tel. 0 1729 830 416 Open: year, round, daily National Trust property; cliff and gorge scenery; Malham Cove; gorge at Gordale Scar; limestone pavement; hay meadows with flowers; bird hide; waterfall
Manor Farm Country Park
Hampshire South-east Counties
Access from M27, signed from jct 8
Tel. 0 1489 787 055
Open: park all year; farm Nov-Easter
Farmland and ancient woodland beside Hamble river; traditional historic farm buildings; riverside and woodland walk; picnic meadows; children’s play areas; shop; fee charged for car entry.
Marston Vale Country Park and Forest Centre
Bedfordshire Eastern Counties
Between Stewartby Lake and the 'Wetlands' area by footpaths and cycle ways from Stewart Also by road from Station Road, Marston Moretaine (A421) Tel. 0 1234 767 037 Open: 10am-6pm in summer, until 4pm in winter Conservation centre, 60 square miles of country park; wetlands area; bird watching; lake; walking; bike trails; horse trails; adventure playground; café; interactive exhibition; shop; special events; parking Web: Marston Vale Country Park
Matlock Farm Park
Derbyshire East Midlands
Jaggers lane, near Two Dales, Matlock, DE4 5LH Follow brown signs from A623 (Chesterfield/Matlock) or A6 (Bakewell/Matlock) Tel. 01246 590 200 Open: daily, 10am-4:30pm; closed 25-26 Dec and 1 Jan Family friendly open farm; large range of animals to view and pet; adventure playgrounds; gift shop; go-cart track; cafe; horse riding lessons and pony trekking--booking essential Web: Matlock Farm Park
Mead Open Farm
Bedfordshire Eastern Counties
Stanbridge Rd, Billington Near Leighton Buzzard Follow brown signs from A505 or A4146 Tel. 0 1525 852 954 Open: daily, 10am-6.30pm, last entry 5.30pm; closed 24-26 Dec and 1 Jan Traditional and rare farm animals; outdoor play area includes crazy golf and go-karts; picnic area; rabbits and guinea pigs; cow milking; pony grooming; feeding new lambs; sheep racing; sheep dog demonstrations; indoor play barn; daily activities; special events; tractor and trailer rides; café; shop; parking Web: Mead Open Farm
Minsmere Nature Reserve
Suffolk Eastern Counties
Minor road dead ends from Westleton to Dunwich road east of Westleton, Saxmundham. On Heritage Coast between Southwold and Aldeburgh Tel. 01728 648281 Open: Reserve and visitor centre open all year, every day except Tue, Christmas and Boxing Day; visitor centre open 9am-5pm, Feb–Oct; 9am-4pm, Nov-end Jan RSPB site; nature trails through variety of habitats with wildlife and birdwatching hides; year round programme of events and guided walks; visitor centre; shop; tea-room Website: RSPB
Monkey Forest
Staffordshire West Midlands
Trentham Estate
Stone Road, Trentham, ST4 8AY
Tel. 0 1782 659 845
Open: 3rd week Oct and 3rd week Feb, 10am-4pm; 3rd week March-3rd week July, 10am-5pm; 3rd week July-first weekend Sep, 10am-6pm; first weekend Sep-3rd week Oct, 10am-5pm; see website for exact details; feeding times 15 min past each hour
140 Barbary macaques (an endangered species) living as if in the wild within a 60 acre woodland; visitors can walk among them on a pathway; information boards; guides; cafe; shop; picnic area; car park; accessible site
Web: Monkey Forest
Moors National Park Centre
Yorkshire North-east Counties
¾ of a mile outside Danby in the Esk Valley Tel. 0 1439 772 737 Open: April-Oct, daily 10am-5pm; March, Nov and Dec daily, 11am-4pm; Jan and Feb, weekends only, 11am-4pm The centre for the North Yorkshire Moors National Park For photos and more information on the park see our article North Yorkshire Moors National Park
Morden Bog National Nature Reserve
Dorset South-west Counties
Wareham Forest 1.5 miles from Wareham Open: year round, dawn-dusk Heathland and forest, one of the largest valley mire habitats in England; waymarked walk; seven mile family cycle trail; free map available from most visitors centres; car park
Mount Edgcumbe House and Country Park
Cornwall South-west Counties
Cremyll, Torpoint On Rame Peninsula, south-east Cornwall Tel. 0 1752 822 236 Open: House and garden, April-end Sep, Sun-Thu and BH Mon, 11am-4.30pm (group bookings in March and Oct); country park all year, daily 8am-dusk 18th century former home of earls of Mount Edgcumbe; paintings and tapestries; Grade I Cornish Gardens; 865 acres country park with pool; bronze age burial ground; 1545 blockhouse; 1788 church; folly; 1755 temple; orangery; stables; national collection of camellias in the garden; cruises on river Tamar available; pay and free car parks various places; tea-room and restaurant April-Oct; exhibitions; events; shop Web: Mount Edgcumbe House and Country Park
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National Forest Maize Maze
Staffordshire West Midlands
Postern House Farm, Tatenhill Burton on Trent, DE13 9SJ Tel. 0 1812 333 315 Open: July 15-4 Sep; 10.30am-6pm, last admission one hour before closing Three miles of pathways, towers, and bridges in cornfield maze; farm attractions include tractor rides Web: National Forest Maize Maze
New Forest Reptile Centre
Hampshire South-east Counties
Two miles south-west of Lyndhurst off the A35, New Forest
Tel. 023 8028 3141 (Southern Forestry)
Open: Easter-end Sep, daily, 10am-4.30pm
Reptiles and amphibians; cams of birds of prey; self-guided forest trail; woodland picnic area
New Forest Wildlife Park
Hampshire South-east Counties
Deerleap Lane Near Ashurst, Hampshire Tel. 023 8029 2408 Open: spring and summer, daily, 10am-5.30pm; autumn and winter, daily, 10am-dusk; last entry one hour before closing Focus on preservation of Eurasian otter; other species include pine martens, polecats, minks, stoats, badgers, red foxes, northern lynx, Scottish wildcats, hedgehogs, wallabies, wild boar and deer shop; tea-room; parking; special events; tours Web: New Forest Wildlife Park
Newtown National Nature Reserve
Isle of Wight South-east Counties
Newtown Tel. 0 1983 741 020 Open: year round National Trust property; 1.5 mile walk from the visitor centre gives views of the estuary from bird hide; birds include black-headed gulls and redshanks; path crosses hay meadow (flowers include yellow rattle, ox-eye daisies), butterflies, and birds including meadow pipits: path continues over footbridge across marsh; hut with ponds by it that were ‘salt-pans used till 1939
Normanby Hall Country Park, House, and Museum
Yorkshire North-east Counties
Normanby Hall Country Park, four miles from Scunthorpe Tel. 01724 720 588 Open: hall and museum, April-end Sep, daily, 1-5pm; walled garden, April-end Sep, daily, 10.30am-5pm, Oct-March, 10.30am-4pm; park and playground, year round, daily, 9am-dusk 300 acres of parkland; glasshouses; 1825 Regency mansion; furniture by Gillows; costume galleries; farming museum; Victorian walled kitchen garden; glasshouses; woodland walks; deer park; miniature railway; tea-room; shop; caravan site; visitor centre; special events; adventure playground; duck ponds; peacocks; shop; cafe; picnic area; parking charge For photos and more details see our article at Normanby Hall Country Park Web: Normanby Hall Country Park
North Cave Wetlands Nature Reserve
Yorkshire North-east Counties
Near village of North Cave From M62 at junction 38 onto the northbound B1230. Follow this for just under two miles to the village of North Cave. Once in the village take a left at the crossroads, then left at the next set of crossroads. Turn left into Dryam Lane and parking is on the left hand side. Tel. NA Open: daily, year round Reserve of several large lakes, wetlands and mixed terrestrial habitats; over 170 birds, 200 plants species, 24 butterfly species; ringed plover, oystercatcher, redshank and avocet; waders, dabbling ducks, and diving ducks such as goldeneye, pochard and smew; sand cliffs provide nesting habitat for sand martins and kingfishers; ground nesting birds include skylark, meadow pipit and redshank; hedgerows of hawthorn, blackthorn, and elm; alder woodland; wintering goldfinch, redpoll and siskin; hobby, merlin and peregrine falcon year round; common blue, small skipper, and wall brown butterflies; car park on Dryham Lane; refreshments
North Yorkshire Moors National Park
Yorkshire North-east Counties
See our feature article North Yorkshire Moors National Park
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Old Moor RSPB Reserve
Yorkshire North-east Counties
From A635 towards Barnsley follow the brown RSPB Old Moor signs. From A6195 (Doncaster) pass Morrison's superstore and then follow brown RSPB signs Tel. 0 1226 751 593 Open: Nov-end Jan, visitor centre 9.30am-4pm; Feb-end Oct, visitor centre 9.30am-5pm; closed 25/26 Dec Habitats of open water, marsh, reedbeds, and grassland support over 8000 golden plovers and other waterfowl; kingfisher, lapwing, and tree sparrow; summer visitors include swallows and martins, and dragonflies; two trails, one is short trail and especially for families, children’s play area; pond dipping, dragonfly and butterfly walks; picnic area; guided walks available; tea-room; large shop
Onchan Wetlands Reserve
Isle of Man
Curragh Kiondroghad
Two minutes walk from shopping centre in Onchan or Church road near Onchan from A2, park on left as road dips; entrance across piece of land
Boardwalk, flowers, birds
One Tree Hill
Kent South-east Counties
.25 miles south-east of Seven Oaks between Underriver and Bitchet Common Tel. 0 1959 561 585 Open: open countryside National Trust property; woodland walking with many paths and long distance footpath; viewpoints; picnic area; car park on western boundary
Orford Ness
Suffolk Eastern Counties
Orford Quay Tel. 01394 450900 Open: April-June and part of Oct, Sat only; July-end Sep, Tue-Sat; access is only by ferry from Orford Quay with boats crossing between 10am and 2pm National Trust property; largest vegetated shingle spit in Europe with variety of habitats including shingle, salt marsh, mudflat, lagoons and marsh; important bird location; five-mile route
Ouse Washes
Cambridgeshire Eastern Counties
Signposted on minor road east of A141 take B1093 from A141 to Manea village or B1098 from Chatteris Tel. 0 1354 680 212 Open: remote open site; visitor centre, daily 9am-5pm except closed 25, 26 Dec RSPB property; 10 bird hides; accessible walks; ducks, swans, snipe, lapwings, black-tailed godwit, garganey, wigeon, tree sparrow, redshank; dragonflies; car park
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Paradise Wildlife Park
Hertfordshire Eastern Counties
White Stubbs Lane, Broxbourne Tel. 0 1992 470 490 Open: daily, 9.30am-6pm in spring and summer; until 5pm in fall and winter Interactive zoo with touching and feeding of animals; over 400 animals; tigers, lions, monkeys, zebras, camels, penguins, parrots, camels, wolves, and many more; rides; swimming; rainforest exhibit; parking; miniature railway; adventure playground; picnic area; coffee shop; café; gardens and woodland; special events Web: Paradise Wildlife Park
Pen-twyn and Pontsticill Reservoirs
Mid Wales and Brecon Beacons
Just north of the A465 and Merthyr Tydfil Open: year round Two reservoirs in wooded valley in Brecon Beacons National Park; sailing; canoeing; paths and trails; bridleway; picnic areas; viewpoints; common wildfowl and woodland bird species; tufted duck, mallard, and teal at Pen-twyn; remains of old buildings visible when water level low at Pontsticill; parking; Brecon Mountain Railway terminus at far end of reservoir
Petts Wood and Hawkwood Estate
Kent South-east Counties
A208 Orpington Rd; Gosshill Rd, Chislehurst; Birchwood Rd, Petts Wood Tel. 0 1959 561 585 Open: open countryside National Trust property; wood is 150 acre ancient semi-natural woodland with oak, beech, birch, and Scot’s pine; estate is grazed pasture with scrub and woodland; wildlife; birds; fungi, wildflowers; network of footpaths; bridle path; parking
Poole’s Cavern
Derbyshire East Midlands
Green Lane, .5 mile from Buxton town centre Buxton Country Park Tel. 0 1298 26978 Open: daily, 9.30am-5pm Set in Buxton Country park with walks, wildlife, flowers, and birds; Solomon’s Temple is folly in the park grounds and provides views over countryside; the cavern is a series of limestone chambers, shown by guided tour every 20 min, tours last 50 min; café; parking Web: Poole’s Cavern
Potteric Carr Nature Reserve
Yorkshire North-east Counties
Two miles south-east of Doncaster, close to Junction 3 of the M18; from Doncaster, take the A6182 (White Rose Way) and turn left at the roundabout near B&Q; from the M18 Junction 3, take the A6182 and turn right at the first roundabout Tel. NA Open: daily from 9am; last entry 5pm 500 acres of habitats range from open water to marsh to woodland to wetland and reed fen; 200 species of birds include kingfisher, long-eared owl, reed and sedge warblers, woodpeckers and woodcock; marsh plants include great spearwort, lesser water-plantain, lesser reedmace, greater tussock sedge, purple small reed, great water dock, yellow-wort and traveller's joy; 28 species of butterfly include comma, gatekeeper, whiter-letter hairstreak, purple hairstreak and brown argus; 19 species of dragonfly include black-tailed skimmer, banded demoiselle, hairy dragonfly, broad-bodied chaser and ruddy darter; car park; field centre
Pride of the Valley Sculpture Park
Surrey South-east Counties
Jumps Rd, Churt, Farnham, near the A287 Tel. 01428 605 453 Open: daily, 10am-5pm Sculptures by many artists set along 1.5 miles of all-weather pathways; three lakes, two streams, lawns, bogs, woodland Web: Pride of the Valley Sculpture Park
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Queen Elizabeth Country Park
Hampshire South-east Counties
Gravel Hill, Horndean PO8 0QE Tel. 023 9259 5040 Open: daily; visitor centre, shop and café from 10am-5.30, March-end Oct; Nov-3rd week Dec and Jan and Feb until 4.30 1400 acres of open access woodland and downland; East Hampshire Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty; 20 miles of trails for walkers, cyclists and horse riders; Butser Hill National Nature Reserve (over 30 species of butterfly) and the highest point on the south downs; four water features, visitor centre; play trail for young children; café, shop; charge for car parking
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Radipole Lake Nature Reserve
Dorset South-west Counties
RSPB Visitor Centre Swannery Car Park, Weymouth Tel. 0 1305 778313 Migrating bird site in spring and late summer and autumn. Made up of open water, reedbeds (largest in south-west England), flower meadows (southern marsh orchid blooms in summer), and scrubby bushes; interpretative displays, bird hide, nature trails; audio guide; bird news; shop; hot drinks and snacks; birds include little and great crested grebe, cormorant and grey heron; ducks at the reserve are pochard, shoveler, and teal; gulls include iceland, glaucous, ring-billed, and Mediterranean; resident birds are the cetti's warbler and bearded tit.
Rainham Marshes
Essex Eastern Counties
New Tank Hill Rd (A1090) Purfleet, EC3M 4AJ Tel. 0 1708 899 840 Open: April-Oct, daily, 9.30am-5pm; Nov-March, 9.30am-4.30pm; closed 25, 26 Dec RSPB property; medieval marshes by River Thames; wading birds; wild ducks; birds include avocet, lapwing, little egret, peregrine and ringed plover; bird hides; visitor centre; shop; cafe; wildlife garden; children’s play area; special events; all accessible nature trails
Ranmore Common and Denbies Hillside
Surrey South-east Counties
Landbarn Farm, Hole Hill, Westcott, one mile west of Dorking Tel. 0 1306 887 485 Open: year round, daily, dawn-dusk National Trust property; mature woodland; grass downland; beech walks; wooded commons; beech, oak and ash trees on heath and downland; wildflowers; rare varieties of butterflies; five miles on the North Downs; parking at Denbies Hillside and south of Ranmore Common
Ranworth Broad Nature Reserve
Norfolk Eastern Counties
Signposted from the village of Ranworth Tel. 0 1603 270 479 Open: reserve, dawn-dusk, daily, year round; visitor centre, April-Oct, 10am-5pm Floating nature centre; interpretive panels on boardwalk to the centre; nature trails; wildlife; wildfowl; drinks and snacks; boat trips; parking
Rare Breeds Centre and Country Farm Park
Kent South-east Counties
Woodchurch M20, jct 10 on the B2067 Tel. 0 1233 861 493 Open: year round, April-end Oct, daily, 10.30am-5.30pm; Nov-March, Tue-Sun, 10.30am-4.30pm; closed 24-26 Dec and 1 Jan Two play barns; animals to pet; discovery garden; wildlife garden; woodland adventure course; trails; summer butterfly tunnel and gardens; aerial runways and play fort; trailer rides; countryside interpretation lodge; walk through aviary; creepy crawlies; pig racing and other special events; birds of prey; parking Web: Rare Breeds Centre and Country Farm Park
Red Rocks Nature Reserve
Cheshire North-west Counties
Dee Estuary, on Wirral peninsula Tel. N/A Open: open site Two main habitats: south is 28 acre nature reserve of marsh and sand dunes; 50 species of flowering plants; Natterjack toad; north is Hilbre Point overlooking Bird Rock, East Hoyle sand bank and Liverpool Bay; sea watching; variety of migrant birds; reed beds with breeding sedge and reed warblers; sand dunes with sky larks, stonechat
Reigate and Gatton Park
Surrey South-east Counties
Between Reigate Hill and Banstead Heath, 1.5 miles north-east of Reigate just north of A242 Tel. 0 1372 220 640 Open: open countryside National Trust property; rare downland species; panoramic views; woodlands; parkland by ‘Capability’ Brown; Reigate fort (1898); parking at Wray Lane car park off A217 next to M25, jct 8
Rosliston Forestry Centre
Derbyshire East Midlands
Burton Rd, Rosliston Swadlincote, Derbyshire DE12 8JX Tel. 01283 563 483 Open: daily Meadows, ponds, fishing, play area, guided walks, talks, waterfowl, bats in the summer, owls and kestrels, snowdrops and bluebells, butterflies, conkers; lodges to rent; shop, restaurant; picnic areas, cycle rental; sensory garden Web: Rosliston Forestry Centre
Royal Society for the Protection of Birds National Headquarters
Bedfordshire Eastern Counties
On the B1042 between Sandy and Potton Tel: 01767 680551. Tourist info: 01767 682728 Open: Reserve 9am-9pm; shop 9am-5pm Grounds, woodland walks, gardens and shop with bird items Website: RSPB National Headquarters
Rufford Abbey and Country Park
Nottinghamshire East Midlands
Two miles south of Ollerton, off A614 Tel. 0 1623 822 944 Open: all year, daily, 10am-5pm; closed 25 Dec English Heritage property; remains of 17th century manor house and 12th century Cistercian abbey set in a country park; parking; picnic area; refreshments; craft centre
Rye Meads RSPB Reserve and Visitor Centre
Hertfordshire Eastern Counties
Rye Rd, Stanstead Abbotts Tel. 0 1992 708 383 Open: year round, daily, 10am-5pm or dusk if earlier RSPB reserve; wide range of wetland habitats; reed beds, open water, meadows; bird watching; special events; picnic area; parking
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Salcey Forest
Northamptonshire East Midlands
Quinton to Hanslope road Six miles south-west of Northampton near Hartwell village Tel. 01780 444920 Ancient woodland with old oaks, walks and wildlife including fallow and muntjac deer, bats, and dormice; birds include warbler, nightingale, woodcock, woodpecker, buzzard, nuthatch, blue, great and long-tailed tits, and greenfinches; ponds are home to various insects and reptiles; café, children’s play area, surface trails, horse and cycle routes; picnic areas; orienteering course; charge for car park.
Salthome Wildlife Reserve and Discovery Park
Yorkshire North-east Counties
On the A178; nearest town is Milddlesbrough 1.5 miles north of Port Clarence Tel. 0 1642 546 625 Open: year round, daily except 25 Dec; April-end Sep, 10am-5pm; Oct-end March, 10am-4pm State of the art visitor centre has panoramic wetland views; bird hides; footpaths; walled wildlife garden; playground; tea-room; shop; picnic area; special events; parking; species to be seen include lapwing, breeding tern, water rail, yellow ragtail, peregrine, sand martin, skylark, shell duck, tufted duck, golden plover, curlew, and great crested grebe
Sandringham Estate
Norfolk Eastern Counties
On B1440 north-east of King’s Lynn Tel. 01553 612908 Open: house, museum, and gardens, mid April-mid July and early Aug-end Oct; check website for full details Holiday home of the Royal family in 60 acres of grounds; dining room, drawing room and two parlours on view; museum of vintage royal cars; large country park across the road from the house has amenities, shop and restaurant Website: Sandringham Estate
Scarlett Visitor Centre
Isle of Man
Scarlett Point, Castletown Tel. 0 1624 801 985 Open: May-Sep, daily except Mon, 2-5pm Displays of flora and fauna, industrial archaeological history of limestone kilns; coastal nature trail; parking; operated by Manx Wildlife Trust
Sea Life Sanctuary
Norfolk Eastern Counties
Southern Promenade, Hunstanton Tel. 0 1485 533 576 Open: daily except 25 Dec, spring-summer 10am-4pm; autumn-winter times not given on website 30 displays include aquarium, starfish, otters, penguins, sharks, rays, seahorses and much more; professional treatment for sick, injured or distressed marine animals; feeding demonstrations throughout the day; childrens’ play area; shop; café; park in town car park nearby Web: Sea Life Sanctuary
Sence Valley Forest Park
Leicestershire East Midlands
Ravenstone Rd, Ibstock Tel. 01889 586 593 Open: daily, dawn-dusk 150 acre park of woodland, lakes, meadow, trails, wildlife hides; car park
Sharpenhose Clappers Chalkland
Bedfordshire Eastern Counties
On the A6 south of Bedford Near the village of Barton-le-Clay Open: open countryside National Trust property; walks, flowers, and views
Sheringham Park
Norfolk Eastern Counties
Off the A148 Cromer-Holt Road by car By local train from Sheringham town station Tel. 01263 8232778 Open: all year, daily, dawn-dusk National Trust property; landscaped park, woods, woodland garden, walks, viewing towers; restored train station and steam train from Sheringham through the woods makes a stop in the park
Sherwood Forest National Nature Reserve (Country Park) and Visitor Centre
Nottinghamshire East Midlands
On B6034, just north of the village of Edwinstowe Follow brown tourist signs from roundabout at Ollerton on the A614 Tel. Visitor information: 0 1623 823 202 (daily 10.30am - 4.30pm) or 0 8449 80 80 80 (8am - 8pm Mon-Fri; 8am - 12 noon Sat) Open: park, daily, dawn to dusk; visitor centre April-Oct, daily, 10.30am-5pm; Nov-March 10.30am-4.30pm 450 acre site with 900 old oak trees including the famous oak tree of Robin Hood legend; walks in the forest; exhibition, video; café; shops; home of arts and crafts centre; parking—fee charged; special events
Shire Horse Centre
Yorkshire North-east Counties
Staitondale, off A171 Whitby to Scarborough road, on a farm Tel. 01723 870458 Open: 3rd week May-1st week Sep, Tue, Wed, Fri, and BH Sun and Mon, 10.30am-4.30pm Shows with horses and Shetland ponies; stables; forge; picnic area; café; shop; children’s program in summer Website: Shire Horse Farm
Southerscales National Nature Reserve
Yorkshire North-east Counties
On north-west slopes of Ingleborough, and part of Ingleborough National Nature Reserve Off the B6255 Ingleton to Hawes road in North Yorkshire. Park in the car park next to the Old Hill Inn and take the path just beyond the Inn towards Hawes From Bridlington take the B1255 out of the town centre to Flamborough and follow the signs for North Landing. Tel. NA Open: daily, year round Limestone pavement of national importance; ferns and flowering plants; cliffs are nesting sites for sea birds that include puffins, razorbills, guillemots, kittiwakes and fulmars; feeding point for migratory birds; maritime and chalk grassland plants; specialised algae and rare lichens; butterflies in summer are the small tortoiseshell, meadow brown, and painted lady; parking at Old Hill Inn, Chapel-le-Dale—fee charged; parking also in public pay-and-display car park at North Landing
Spurn National Nature Reserve
Yorkshire North-east Counties
Located east from Hull to Patrington, then take the B1445 to Kilnsea & Spurn Tel. NA Open: daily, year round Curving sandy peninsula with dunes stretching 3.5 miles across the mouth of River Humber; large number of wintering birds and passage waders and wildfowl; insect and plant species; car park--fee charged
Standalone Farm
Hertfordshire Eastern Counties
Wilbury Rd, Letchworth Garden City Tel. 0 1462 686 775 Open: March-Oct, daily, 11am-5pm 170 acres with large and small farm animals: sheep, ducks, goats, rabbits, donkeys, owls, pigs, horses, chickens, wildfowl hide; parking; play area; picnic area Web: Standalone Farm
Staunton Harold Reservoir and Visitor Centre
Derbyshire East Midlands
Calke Rd, Windmill Hill, Melbourne Tel. 01332 865 081 Open: April-Oct, 7am-dusk; Nov-March, 8.30am-4pm 210 acre reservoir and visitor centre with wildflower meadow; bird watching; dinghy and sailboarding; walk to Calke Abbey; coarse fishing; events and activities; car parking fee
Stockley Working Farm
Cheshire North-west Counties
Smithy House, Arley Estate Arley, Northwich, Cheshire CW9 6LZ Tel. 0 1565 777 492 for organic produce or 0 1565 777 323 for farm enquiries 700 acre working dairy farm; viewing gallery of milking parlour for visitors; tractor and trailer ride; baby animals such as calves, piglets, goats, lambs; organic produce for delivery by the box; tea-room Web: Stockley Working Farm
Stonehurst Farm and Motor Museum
Leicestershire East Midlands
Bond Lane, Mountsorrel Tel. 01509 413 216 Open: daily, year round, 9.30am-5pm; closed Dec 25-Jan 2 Children’s farmyard animals include cows, sheep, pigs, goats, horses, and donkeys; baby rabbits and guinea pigs; activity play area for kids; tractor and trailer rides; pony rides weekends; pond dipping; Motor Museum has collection of vintage motor cars, motorcycles and memorabilia; 1920s garage and working blacksmith forge; farm shop, gift shop, restaurant and teashop; parking
Studland Beach and Nature Reserve
Dorset South-west Counties
On south-west coast path Tel. 0 1929 450 259 (National Trust Purbeck Estate Office) Open: different times durng the year; check National Trust website for full details National Nature Reserve of dune, heath, woodland, and wetland; three mile sandy beach, bird hides; NT shop at Knoll beach; boat parks and launching at Shell Bay and Knoll Beach; horse riding on beach by permit; car parks
Summer Leys Local Nature Reserve
Northamptonshire East Midlands
near Wellingborough Part of the Nene Valley Reserve, a larger Site of Special Scientific Interest, which is an important refuge for wintering and breeding birds, including golden plover, lapwing, wigeon and shoveler, egret, peregrine falcon, goldeneye, and smew.
Sutton Bank National Park Centre
Yorkshire North-east Counties
At the top of Sutton Bank on the A170; 6 miles east of Thirsk; 7.5 miles west of Helmsley
Tel. 0 1845 597 426
Open: April-Oct, daily 10am-5pm; March, Nov and Dec daily, 11am-4pm; Jan and Feb, weekends only, 11am-4pm
For photos and more information on the park see our feature article North Yorkshire Moors National Park
Sylvia’s Meadow Nature Reserve
Cornwall South-west Counties
St Anne’s Chapel Honnicombe, East Cornwall Accessed through Tamar Valley Donkey Park Tel. 0 1872 273 939 Open: daily, 10am-5pm, spring- end Sep Site of Special Scientific Interest owned and managed by Cornwall Wildlife Trust; species-rich neutral unimproved grassland, rich in orchids, including both common and heath spotted orchids (best display in June); use Donkey Park car park and go to their ticket office for meadow directions
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Tapton Lock Visitor Centre
Derbyshire East Midlands
Lockford Lane, Chesterfield On Chesterfield canal Tel: 01246 551035 Open: April-Oct, 10am-4.30pm, rest of year weekends only until 4pm Visitor centre has information on canal and countryside sites and attractions; program of activities and events; boat rides on Sun and BH Mon from 1-4pm; towpath along the canal; picnic area; parking; waymarked walks; light refreshments
Thatcham Nature Discovery Centre
Berkshire South-east Counties
Muddy Lane, Lower Way, Thatcham Tel. 01635 874381 for details
Thornton Reservoir
Leicestershire East Midlands
Reservoir Rd Thornton Tel. 01332 865 081; for events and activities tel. 0870 1791 111; for fishing tel. 01530 230 808. Open: April-Oct, 7am-dusk; Nov-March, 9am-4pm 75 acres in rolling farmland and woodland with exhibition and fishing lodge; trails for walkers and cyclists.
Thorp Perrow Arboretum and Falcon Conservation Centre
Yorkshire North-east Counties
Bedale, on A1, south of Leeming Bar Tel. 0 1677 425 323 (arboretum) 0 1677 427 755 (birds of prey centre) Open: arboretum, tearoom, bird of prey and mammal centre, daily, 10am-5pm, mid-Feb-mid-Nov; flying displays at 11.30am, 1.30pm and 3.30pm; animal guided tour at 12.15pm; mid Nov-mid Feb, arboretum, tearoom, bird of prey and mammal centre, daily, 11am-3pm; flying displays at 1.30pm Mon-Fri, 11.30am and 1.30pm on Sat and Sun 85 acres of woodland walks; large collection of trees and shrubs with four National Collections; walled garden; captive breeding and conservation centre for falcons with three demonstrations daily in summer Web: Thorp Perrow
Thurleigh Farm Centre
Bedfordshire Eastern Counties
Cross End, Thurleigh, Bedfordshire Tel. 0 1234 771 597 Open: daily, 9.30am-5.30pm Working farm and children’s activity centre; feeding and handling of farm animals; trampolines, pedal carts; pony and tractor trailer rides; indoor play area; miniature train; outdoor play area; archery; pony rides; roller blading; crazy golf; maze; café; special events; parking Web: Thurleigh Farm Centre
Top Lodge at Fineshade Woods
Northamptonshire East Midlands
Fineshade Woods, Rockingham Forest off A43 between Stamford and Corby Tel. 0 1780 444 920 Open: daily, 10am-5pm; closed 25 Dec Forest centre with all ability paths, horse and cycle trails; wildlife hide; cameras with views of red kite nesting sites; café, local made ice-cream; RSPB shop, local craft outlet, children’s play area, picnic areas; special activities and events throughout the year Web: Top Lodge
Totternhoe Wood Knolls Nature Reserve
Bedfordshire Eastern Counties
On minor road off the A505 or the B5489, just west of Dunstable Nature reserve
Toys Hill
Kent South-east Counties
Five miles south-west of Sevenoaks; 2.5 miles south of Brasted; 1 mile west of Ide Hill Tel. 0 1959 561 585 Open: all year, daily, dawn-dusk National Trust property; woodland that is Site of Special Scientific Interest; waymarked trails, circular walks, bridleways; parking; picnic area; viewpoints
Tulleys Farm
East and West Sussex South-east Counties
Turners Hill, Crawley, West Sussex Off the B2110 or M23 Tel. 0 1342 718 472 (general farm enquiries); 0 1342 715365 (specific enquiries) Open: daily year round except 25/26 Dec and 1 Jan; farm shop, tea-room etc various times—check website; themed maize from July-Sep, 10am-6pm Special seasonal family events; fruit picking; farm shop; animal patch; children’s play area; crazy golf; mini tractors; restaurant; parking Web: Tulleys Farm
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Walby Farm Park
Cumbria North-west Counties
Walby, Crosby-on-Eden; follow signs for Brampton A689 from M6 (Junction 44); turn off to Walby; further directions, map on website Tel. 0 1228 573 056 Open: year round except 24-26 December and 1 January, 10am-6pm (last admission 4pm) Indoor and outdoor play areas for children include pet corner, nature trail, rare breeds of animals; seasonal maize maze; café; farm shop Web: Walby Farm Park
Walsall Arboretum
Greater Birmingham West Midlands
Lichfield St Walsall near Birmingham Tel: 0845 111 2909 Open: park Victorian parkland, lakes, gardens, woodland walks,children's play area, tennis courts, football pitches, golf course; café; lights and laser show takes place every autumn with live entertainment and rides. Web: Walsall Light Show and Walsall Council
Washington Wildfowl and Wetlands Centre
Tyne and Wear (Tyneside) North-east Counties
Pattinson, Washington Four miles from the A1, east of Washington Tel: 0191 416 5454 Open: Nov-March, daily, 9.30am-4.30pm; April-Oct, 9.30am-5.30pm; closed 25 Dec; last admission 1/2 hour before closing 100 acres provide wintering habitat for migratory waterbirds; lake; woodlands with bluebells and primrose; meadows with wildflowers; wetland adventure play area for kids; waterfall and stream; waterfowl nursery; flamingo colony; bird hide in the woods; cafe; shop Web: Washington Wetlands and Wildlife Trust
Watersmeet
Devon South-west Counties
Watersmeet Rd, Lynmouth
Tel. 01598 753 348
Open: countryside, year round; Watersmeet House (19th century fishing lodge) tea-room, tea-garden; shop, daily, mid March-end April and Oct, 10.30am-4.30pm; May-end Sep, 10.30am-5pm
National Trust property; wildlife; waterfalls; walking trails; sea-cliffs; fishing; gorge; pay car park 500 yards (not NT)—steep walk to house
Westhay Moor National Nature Reserve
Somerset South-west Counties
From B3151 turn right 1km beyond Westhay, continue for 1km to car park Tel. NA Open: open countryside Reed-beds, open water, carr and remnants of acid raised mire, damp heath, fen and wet grassland habitats on Somerset levels; overwintering birds include ducks starlings, geese and swans; other wildlife includes otters, roe deer, badger, grass snake, adder, dragonflies, butterflies; birds include Berwick's swan, golden plover, lapwing, teal, gadwall, garganey, water rail, reed warbler, goldeneye, goosander, little grebe, bearded tit, Cetti's warbler, reed bunting, barn owl, marsh harrier, hen harrier, hobby, nightjar, tree pipit, nightingale
Westonbirt National Arboretum
Gloucestershire South-west Counties
Three miles south-west of Tetbury On the A433 Tel. 0 1666 880 220 Open: year round, daily except Christmas Day, 9am-5pm Grade I landscape; 600 acres of trees; 18,000 specimen trees and shrubs; 17 miles of paths; visitor centre; shop; plant centre; café; restaurant; picnic area; parking; exhibitions; workshops; special events Web: Westonbirt
Wetlands Animal Park
Nottinghamshire East Midlands
Sutton-cum-Lound, Retford Tel. 0 1777 818 099 Open: daily, 10.30am-5pm, last admission 4.30pm 32 acres of woods and two lakes (fishing available) with residents from all over the globe; animals at close quarters include monkeys, deer, wallaby, and meerkat; picnic area; bird sanctuary; children’s play area; parking; special events; cafeteria; shop Web: Wetlands Animal Park
Whinlatter Forest Visitor Centre
Cumbria North-west Counties
Whinlatter Pass, Braithwaite, Keswick Tel. 0 1768 778 469 Open: Visitor Centre, cafe and shop, 10am-4.45pm in summer, until 4pm in winter; garden and playground, daily, 10am-dusk Eight waymarked trails, two junior trails, two waymarked cycle routes, three high level trails, an all ability trail; orienteering; four picnic sites; carpark (charge), shop; café, parking Web: Whinlatter Forest Visitor Centre
Whipsnade Tree Cathedral
Bedfordshire Eastern Counties
Two miles south of Dunstable Off the B4540 (car park signposted) Tel. 01582 872406 Open: open land but car park locked around dusk National Trust property; 26 acres of trees planted in the plan of a medieval cathedral
Whipsnade Wildlife Conservation Park/Zoo
Bedfordshire Eastern Counties
Dunstable, off the B5440/B Tel. 0 1582 872 171 Open: mid March-end first week Oct, daily, 10am-6pm, until 5pm rest of year, summer BH open until 7pm; closed 25 Dec Wildlife conservation park with over 2500 mammals, reptiles and birds in 600 acres of parkland; woodland bird walk; parking; shop; cafes; coffee bar Web: Whipsnade Zoo
White Cliffs Gateway
Kent South-east Counties
Dover Signposted from roundabout one mile north-east of Dover at jct of A2/A258 Tel. 0 1304 202 756 Open: March-end Oct, daily, 10am-5pm; Nov-end Feb, daily, 11am-4pm; car park open from 8am-6pm and 8am-5pm in winter National Trust Visitor Centre for White Cliffs at beginning of six miles of chalk cliffs; walk to NT South Foreland Lighthouse; views over water; shop; coffee shop; parking-fee charged
Wicken Fen National Nature Reserve
Cambridgeshire Eastern Counties
3 miles west of Soham on Lode Lane, Ely Tel. 01353 72074 Open: daily, dawn to dusk; visitor centre, daily except Mon, 10am-5pm; open BH; Fen Cottage open April-end Sep, Sun and BH Mon, 2-5pm National Trust property; fen meadows, reeds, sedge beds, 5000 species of birds, plants, and mammals; walkways and boat tours; exhibitions in visitor centre; historic fen cottage; light snacks and drinks See our article and photos at Wicken Fen National Nature Reserve
Wimpole Home Farm
Cambridgeshire Eastern Counties
Wimpole Hall, Arrington, Royston Tel. 01223 206 000 Open: Nov-3rd week Dec and Jan-mid March, Sat and Sun, 11am-4pm; mid March-mid July and Sep-end Oct, Sat-Wed, 10.30am-5pm; mid July-end Aug, Sat-Thu, 10.30am-5pm; National Trust property; 18th century house in wooded parkland; walled garden; lakes; walks; daffodils; model farm, part of working estate, has largest rare breeds centre in East Anglia; historic thatched buildings and modern buildings; spring lambing; daily milking; family events; Shire horse wagon rides; Great Barn has displays on traditional farming; adventure playground; restaurant; farm kitchen; picnic area; parking; also see our entry under Historic Homes for Wimpole Hall details
Winkworth Arboretum
Surrey South-east Counties
Hascombe Rd, 2 miles south-east of Godalming Tel. 0 1483 208 477 Open: year round during daylight hours National Trust property; hillside, woodland, more than 1000 trees and shrubs including magnolias, bluebells, azaleas; lake; tea-room (open various days and times); program of walks and talks
Wirral Country Park Visitor Centre
Merseyside/Liverpool North-west Counties
Thurstaston, Wirral, Merseyside Tel. 0151-648 4371 Open: year round Bird hide, small exhibition area, picnic area, maps of the park; family attraction
Woburn Safari Park
Bedfordshire Eastern Counties
Woburn Tel. 0 1525 290 407 Open: March-end Oct, daily, 10am-5pm; Nov-Feb, weekends only, 11am-3pm Safari and leisure park with animals roaming free, includes elephants, giraffes, lions, tigers, monkeys, camels and more; foot safari includes penguins, wallabies, monkeys, sheep, and goats; indoor soft play area; outdoor play area; bobcat ride for adults; slides; swan boats on lake; miniature railway ride; Go Ape; animal feeding times; Woburn Abbey historic house on grounds; two restaurants; golf club; inn; special events; shop; parking Web: Woburn Safari Park
Wollaton Hall and Deer Park
Nottinghamshire East Midlands
Lime Tree Ave, off Wollaton Rd, Nottingham 3 miles west of city centre; follow brown signs from A52 or A6514; from M1 take junction 25 and follow the signs; also reached by bus from city centre Tel. 0 115 915 3900 Open: daily, year round; April-Oct, 11am-5pm; Nov-March, 11am-4pm; closed 24-26 Dec and 1 Jan; park open daily, year round, 8am weekdays, 9am weekends, closes different times in different weeks and months 16th century Grade I listed Robert Smythson house in 500 acres of historic parkland; reconstructed period rooms including Regency dining room and salon and Tudor kitchens; red and fallow deer herds; lake; wildlife habitats; walks; formal gardens; camellia house is oldest cast iron glasshouse in Europe; shop; café; picnic area; parking—fee charged; restaurant; also on site are Nottingham Natural History Museum, Nottingham Industrial Museum (open last Sun of each month for Sunday Steamings) and Yard Gallery (open for special events - enquire for more details) Web: Wollaton Hall and Deer Park
Woodhorn Experience
Northumberland North-east Counties
Queen Elizabeth II country park on A189 halfway between Alnwick and Newcastle city centre at Ashington Tel. 0 1670 52 80 80 Open: Wed-Sun and Bank Holidays but not Christmas Day, April-Oct, 10am-5pm; Nov-March, 10am-4pm Former colliery with restored listed buildings tells story of north-east England’s mining heritage, AV presentation, special tours; archive study centre; original listed colliery buildings restored; set in counry park with walking, cycling, watersports; underground coal mine trip; colliery experience; exhibitions; cafe; shop Web: Experience Woodhorn
Woodside Farm and Leisure Park
Bedfordshire Eastern Counties
Woodside Rd, Slip End, Luton, Bedfordshire Tel. 0 1582 841 044 Open: Mon-Sat, 8am-5.30pm; Sun, 9am-5.30pm; hours shorter in winter, phone to check Poultry and waterfowl centre, includes flamingos; owls, otters, rabbits, prairie dogs; animal encounters; play barn; outdoor play areas include funfair; parking; café; deli; farm shop Web: Woodside Farm
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Yorkshire Dales National Park
Yorkshire North-east Counties
See our feature article Yorkshire Dales National Park
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