5 Best Nature Reserves to Visit in the UK

In the UK, we are fortunate to have vast natural spaces that are protected from exploitation. What’s more, many of these areas are open to the public, who can ramble responsibly in beautiful locales. With so many stunning nature reserves to choose from throughout the country, we have created this list of the 5 best nature reserves to visit in the UK.

How Many Nature Reserves are in the UK?

Across the UK, nature reserves are overseen by a variety of administrative bodies, such as the RSPB, National Trust, and the UK government. Reserves maintained by the government are know as National Nature Reserves; there are currently 225 of these sites in England.

However, there are in excess of 2,300 nature reserves in the UK, with many of them maintained by the Wildlife Trusts.

5 Best Nature Reserves in the UK

1. Fairburn Ings

Situated in Yorkshire and maintained by the RSPB, the Fairburn Ings nature reserve is home to a diverse range of habitats that provide homes to almost 300 species of birds. As little as sixty years ago, this entry on our list of the best nature reserves was an active coal mine. Now, it is home to wetlands, woodlands, lagoons, and other habitats. With so much variety in the locale, Fairburn Ings shelters a wide variety of species. You can expect to encounter water voles, dragonflies, and frogs, as well as the thriving bird population.

This nature reserve, particularly, has become a haven for rare British species such as bitterns and spoonbills.

2. Gibraltar Point

Cared for by the Lincolnshire Wildlife Trust, and situated south of Skegness, Gibraltar Point is one of the best coastal nature reserves in the country. It offers impressive views, allowing you to gaze out at the sea or amble along the nature trails, keeping an eye open for the resident bird populations. Gibraltar Point also offers a visitor centre and café.

Depending on when you visit this nature reserve, you may see seals on the beach. Different bird species visit throughout the year, including skylarks in summer and redwings in winter.

3. Rainham Marshes

Though mostly consisting of wetlands, Rainham Marshes still offer a variety of animal habitats, providing plenty to see and do. Once a military firing range, what makes this one of the best nature reserves is its population of water voles. Ditches on the site also provide refuge for the UK’s native reptile life, and if you watch the skies you may spot some birds or prey.

Peregrine falcons are known to visit Rainham Marshes in Autumn and Winter. For a more active day out, why not hire a bicycle to explore the trails?

4. Warnham Nature Reserve

The 92-acre Warnham Nature Reserve is a diverse and spectacular site in East Sussex. Maintained by the Horsham District Council, there are forests, islands, and ponds, offering shelter to hundreds of species of animal. A visit to Warnham exposes you to a wide spectrum of plant types, including deciduous and evergreen trees alike.

The plants and habitats of this nature reserve are a perfect home for animals. Warnham boasts all three species of woodpecker, as well as deer and foxes in their woodland. You may also be lucky enough to spot weasels and stoats around the waterways.

5. Glenariff Forest Park and Waterfalls Walk

Situated in Northern Ireland, a visit to the Glenariff Forest Park is an opportunity to get lost in a fairy-tale locale. The Waterfall Walk has been designated one of the best nature reserves in Northern Ireland, and is best known for its rocky gorges and, of course, waterfalls. There are several trails through the park, the longest of which is five miles long. These trails take you through the trees and over the rivers Inver and Glenariff, providing opportunities for photos in front of the waterfalls along the way.

Amongst the most notable animals you may see along the Waterfall Walks are red squirrels, which call the towering trees their home. Another rare sight that is protected by this nature reserve is the Irish hare.

Visit Responsibly

We all know how important the natural world is. Sites such as these are important for the welfare of all variety of animals and plants, as well as our planet. Therefore, it is important to be considerate when visiting the best nature reserves – and all others. Stick to the trails and avoid making too much noise so as not to disturb the wildlife. Most importantly, do not leave any litter behind. Keep empty wrappers and bottles in your bag to dispose of in a bin or at home. If you are visiting a nature reserve with a dog, clean up after it and dispose of its waste in any bins provided.

Careline365: Help When You Need It

At Careline365, we want to encourage elderly, disabled, and vulnerable people to continue living independently. However, we recognise that the risk of falls can knock some people’s confidence. Fortunately, a Careline alarm can offer reassurance, with 24/7 coverage available at the press of a button.

We offer a range of products to suit your needs. Moreover, if you choose our fall detector option the alarm can be activated without pressing the button. And for coverage wherever you go, the GO GPS Alarm uses mobile phone signals to help send assistance directly to the person in need.

When the alarm is activated, it sends an alert to our 24/7 Care Team. They then inform emergency contacts that the alarm user needs assistance. When necessary, the Care Team will also alert the emergency services.

To find out more about the Careline365 alarm service, read our detailed guide. If you have any questions about our products, call us on 0800 101 3333 and speak to our friendly customer service team. To buy a Careline alarm, head to our pricing page to order today.