As autumn provides the platform to showcase some of nature’s most spectacular sights, we have chosen to highlight a selection of nature reserves known for their beauty and wildlife at this time of year. So, it’s time to wrap up warm and embrace the golden richness of this awesome season….

* Covid-19 Coronavirus – We would however advise you to check current Government Guidelines, opening times, information and pre-booking options before you travel.

Lower Woods Nature Reserve, Gloucestershire
As one of the largest ancient woodlands in the South West of England, covering almost 700 acres, this reserve, with its extensive network of paths, is home to an incredible 71 species of ancient woodland plants and 40 species of native birds.

Donna Nook National Nature Reserve, Lincolnshire
This Lincolnshire reserve covers more than 10km of coastline between Grainthorpe Haven and Saltfleet and boasts a landscape of sandy dunes and saltmarsh. In late autumn 1,500 grey seals head to the dunes to give birth. There is a viewing platform open from late October at the foot of the sand dunes, providing a unique opportunity for visitors to see the seal pups.
* Due to Government Guidance there is currently an online booking system in place – book your time slot to see the seals.

Rutland Water Nature Reserve, Leicestershire
Covering an area of 1,000 acres of shoreline and shallow water lagoons, Rutland Water Nature Reserve in Leicestershire, internationally recognised as a globally important wetland site, is home to over 25,000 waterfowl and as such, is a hive of activity at this time of year. There are 30 bird watching hides providing optimum viewing. Watch out for redstarts, whinchats and rare warblers such as the barred warbler.

Halsdon Nature Reserve, Devon
Located in a beautiful part of Devon, Halsdon Nature Reserve opens up miles of well-marked trails through tranquil woodland leading to water meadows and the river bank of the River Torridge. Autumn provides the added bonus of a fascinating collection of fungi on the trees and woodland floor.

Minsmere Nature Reserve, Suffolk
Owned and managed by the Royal Society for the Protection of Birds, this 1,000 hectare site of reedbeds, lowland wet grassland, shingle vegetation and lowland heath, offers a great opportunity to discover some of the UK’s rarest wildlife. With migrating birds passing through in the Autumn, it’s a great time to spot curlew sandpipers, little stints or ruffs and watch out for the red deer rut on the heath.

 

Planning ahead? Check out our Interactive Map for B&Bs around the UK and Ireland.