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Somerset Levels and Moors

Top ways to experience Somerset Levels and Moors and nearby attractions

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SOMERSET LEVELS AND MOORS: All You Need to Know BEFORE You Go (with Photos)

See nature come to life on the Somerset Levels

See the Red Arrows equivalent for starlings in stunning Somerset countryside.

The Somerset Levels and Moors are one of those areas of England that often get overlooked by nature lovers. Quite literally for the thousands of them who come here every year to see the otters, water voles, swans and other creatures that call this vast area of wetland home. The levels are a huge clay belt that begins on the coast – close to Weston-Super-Mare – turning to peat floodplain as it stretches inland. This is where it forms the reed-beds that birds like bitterns and curlews love so much.Come here in winter and you’ll see flocks of starlings taking to the skies at dusk – up to 80,000 of them at a time putting on aerial displays that would make the Red Arrows flying team jealous; it’s pretty spectacular stuff. One of the best ways to see it is to get your boots on and go for a walk, following the 50-mile River Parrett Trail, which starts at the river’s source in Dorset, before ending up at the Bridgwater Bay. Don’t forget those binoculars…

• Find out more about The Somerset Levels and plan your visit
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Somerset Levels and Moors

Top ways to experience Somerset Levels and Moors and nearby attractions

Most Recent: Reviews ordered by most recent publish date in descending order.

Detailed Reviews: Reviews ordered by recency and descriptiveness of user-identified themes such as wait time, length of visit, general tips, and location information.

Also popular with travelers

Somerset Levels and Moors - All You Need to Know BEFORE You Go (2024)

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Somerset Levels – Somerset

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The Somerset Levels, a flat, low-lying wetland dominated by mysterious Glastonbury Tor, extends east from the Mendips to Taunton. This fertile landscape, criss-crossed by dykes known as ‘rhynes’, is rich in birdlife and ancient cider orchards – perfect for exploring by bike or canoe. Somerset, literally ‘land of the summer people’, once was an area inundated in winter and accessible for farming only during the summer. Yet the neolithic community who settled here around 6,000 years ago constructed a complex system of raised sand and wooden trackways for fishing, hunting and foraging in the wetter months. One of the oldest existing trackways, The Sweet Track dating from about 3800 BC, can still be explored. Wildlife is abundant in the levels and there are several nature reserves, including Shapwick and Westhay. Habitats range from secluded fenland to lush wildflower meadows and a mosaic of lakes, fringed with rustling reedbeds and busy with otters. In the magical winter landscape, the great skies come alive with huge flocks of starlings that create extraordinary, spiralling patterns agains the vast horizons One of the most popular attractions in this part of Somerset is Glastonbury Tor, but there are other, quieter holy places, such as the ruined church up on Burrow Mump, or the two hills on each side of Compton Dundon –home to a revered, aged yew tree. You might also like to seek out Gog and Magog, two ancient oaks thought to be the only survivors from a 2,000-year-old avenue that once stretched from Glastonbury to King Arthur’s hill fort at Cadbury. And no visit to this part of Somerset, the home of traditonal scrumpy, would be complete without a trip to one of the old cider orchards, beautiful when laden with blossom in spring or with ripening fruit in summer and autumn. Stock up with supplies of still or sparkling cider from the cider-brandy distillery at Burrow Hill, near Kingsbury Episcopi, or at one of the traditional cider-making farms. Add delicious local cheeses, smoked fish, bread and salad, and enjoy a lazy picnic lunch by the river Parrett.

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The Somerset Levels, Moors and Marshes

The Somerset Levels & Moors, Muchelney, Somerset, United Kingdom, TA10

Description

The diverse landscape includes wooded hills and valleys – one of the lowest and flattest places in the UK and an important habitat.

The perfect place for a stroll through beautiful countryside to enjoy wildlife and nature.

There are beautiful areas of orchards, woods, withy beds and medieval churches crossed by a complex network of rhynes and ditches. The remoteness of the area provides an ideal atmosphere for nature lovers, cyclists and walkers.

The Levels are perfect for cycling and The Avalon Marshes has some great heritage routes to explore.

Today the area is mostly grassland and arable with willow grown commercially – do take a visit to the Willows and Wetlands Visitor Centre where the Coate family has thoughtfully put together displays and collections to tell the fascinating story of willow.

With its fabulously rich wildlife it enjoys special protection and supports a number of RSPB reserves. For keen birdwatchers and naturalists we have put together a great itinerary World Class Birdwatching (PDF 12.8MB)

The Somerset levels and Moors is a fantastic place to come and see an abundance of wildlife. Explore the calendar on the Great Cane Project website to discover what’s out there and where and when you can see it. The area has the largest lowland population of breeding wading birds and is a great place to hear bittern, see starling murmurations and watch otters.

To immerse yourself in the magic of the Levels, we have another itinerary we think you’ll enjoy too, In the Heart of the Levels (PDF 12.6MB).

• Family friendly
• Biodiversity diversity

Westhay Moor National Nature Reserve

Family birdwatching from hide at Westhay Moor National Nature Reserve - Guy Edwardes

• Birdwatching
• Butterflies
• Historical interest
• Insect spotting
• Lichens and mosses

OS Map Reference

Know before you go

Parking information, bicycle parking, grazing animals, walking trails.

Starting at the car park you will be met with the first signpost that will give you the choice of taking the 3km long Otter trail, marked by Otter footprints on way-markers, or the 1.6km Coot trail, marked by Coot footprints. Whichever trail you choose they both lead to the first hide of the reserve, the Viridor Hide, and following the Otter trail you will also be led to the Tower Hide, a great place to take in the view of reedbeds and wet woodlands of Alder and Willow.

Fancy a Guided walk?

Access is along rights of way or permissive reserve paths only. There are some all weather paths but others can be very wet and muddy in winter. Several bird watching hides some with wheelchair ramps, see map.

However, dogs on leads or under close control are allowed on the public rights of way (the droves) at Westhay Moor NNR and Catcott nature reserve.

When to visit

Opening times, best time to visit, about the reserve.

Please note:  Parking charges for all visitors using the car park at Westhay Moor NNR will apply at £3 per visit. Please visit the link below for more information.

Parking at Westhay Moor

Dogs are only allowed on the public rights of way (the droves) at Westhay Moor NNR and Catcott nature reserve. Dogs are not permitted on any central permissive paths on both reserves. On public rights of way, dogs must remain on a lead or under close control, remaining on the paths at all times, be visible and in close proximity to their owners. You can read why we have made this decision on the page below.

Dogs on Westhay and Catcott

Internationally acclaimed, Westhay Moor National Nature Reserve is one of the jewels in the crown of Somerset Wildlife Trust’s Nature Reserves and is situated in the centre of the internationally acclaimed and award-winning Avalon Marshes area on the Somerset Levels. Reclaimed from the remnants of industrial-scale peat extraction, and home to the largest surviving remnant of lowland acid mire in the South West. 

It is a mecca for wildlife all year round but particularly in the Spring when Bittern can be hear booming, and where tens of thousands of overwintering birds make it their home. It is home to 7 of the 9 UK breeding herons and has fabulous resident populations of wading birds, wildfowl and is home to otters, beguiling numbers of dragonflies and also raptors such as hobbies, Marsh Harrier, Peregrine and the odd Hen Harrier.

Peat can capture a whole load of carbon so it’s becoming increasingly important as part of a broader effort for natural climate change adaptation in Somerset.

Natural England’s Shapwick Heath reserve and RSPB Ham Wall are also close.

We’ve now created a full StreetView tour of two of the reserves in the Avalon Marshes. You can access a virtual tour from the link below!  As well as viewing the virtual tours on your computer or smart phone/tablet you can also view them in a VR headset to access a fully immersive experience.

Virtual tours

Environmental designation

Westhay documents.

Westhay Moor Leaflet

Map of Westhay Moor

Westhay Moor OS Map

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South Somerset Levels & Moors

South Somerset Levels & Moors, Muchelney, TA10

South Somerset Levels & Moors

South Somerset Levels and Moors

Moorland village close to the River Parrett and below the wooded ridge of High Ham. King Alfred baptised the defeated Danish King Guthrum here in 879.

Compton Dundon

Really two villages and the small hamlet of Littleton.  On Windmill Hill above Compton Dundon stands the monument to Admiral Hood, while Dundon Beacon is the site of an Iron Age fort. Both provide invigorating walks.

Curry Mallet

Rising northwards above the Isle valley, with extensive views south beyond Ilminster to Dorset and north across Sedgemoor to the Mendips and Wales. Walkers and cyclists can find home baked fare at the shop and pub and close by is the manor house with its 15th century great hall and surrounding thatched cottages.

In 1215 William Malet, Lord of Curry Mallet, was one of the twenty five rebel barons elected as a surety or guarantor of the Magna Carta and a number of celebratory events are planned.

Curry Rivel

Attractive village of Blue Lias stone and a parish church dating mainly from the 15th century. Burton Pynsent monument overlooks the site of the battle of Sedgemoor, fought in 1685. The RSPB has a reserve at nearby Swell. The Firehouse pub and restaurant is worth a stop if you're feeling peckish and the Willows and Wetlands Visitor centre is only a few miles away.

Hambridge and Westport

Neighbouring villages on the road across the levels from Curry Rivel to Ilminster. Brown and Forrest's traditional smokery is housed at Hambridge. Traces of the long-abandoned Westport canal and its warehouses can still be seen.

Hilltop village with an interesting church partly dating back to Norman times, Britain's only 19th century thatched windmill Stembridge Tower Mill and Eastfield Local Nature Reserve. Extensive views across the levels to the coast. The animal sanctuary at Heaven's Gate is nearby. Low Ham, to the south, has an unusual 17th century imitation Gothic church. 

Isle Abbotts

The handsome tower of the parish church rises over this sleepy little village close to the River Isle. Across the river to the east lies Isle Brewers. On the higher land to the north, offering fine views across the valley is Fivehead and to the west are the small, secluded villages of Curry Mallet and Beercrocombe.

Kingsbury Episcopi

A ham stone village with ancient lock-up on the green, magnificent church and numerous small orchards. A traditional cider farm on Burrow Hill is home of the famous Somerset Cider Brandy. South of the village is East Lambrook Manor Garden famously created by Margery Fish.

Long Sutton

Picturesque village with a 13th century church and village green. The Quaker Friends' meeting house dates from 1717. South of the village is the Long Sutton Golf Club and the riverside village of Long Load.

Muchelney, meaning "big island" is just south of Langport and surrounded by the Somerset Levels. Visit the excavation of the English Heritage Benedictine Abbey, the 15th century cloister and the Abbot's house can be seen. Also an interesting parish church and the National Trust thatched Priest's House.

Contact Details

South Somerset Levels & Moors, Muchelney, Somerset , United Kingdom, TA10

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Somerset Levels National Nature Reserve

The best walks and hikes in Somerset Levels National Nature Reserve

Looking for the best hikes and walks in Somerset Levels National Nature Reserve? Then browse our collection of routes around this beautiful natural park in Sedgemoor District below. We present you with hiking trails in Somerset Levels National Nature Reserve — all you’ve got to do is pick your favorite and get going.

Plan. Save. Navigate. Your best adventures await.

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Burrow Mump & West Sedge Moor loop from Burrowbridge

Westhay moore, meare, & division rhyne loop.

Let us show you the way with the komoot mobile app

Burrow mump loop from othery, westhay moor – no dogs loop from theale, westhay moor loop from theale.

Our Tour recommendations are based on thousands of activities completed by other people on komoot.

Popular around Somerset Levels National Nature Reserve

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Explore the most popular tours in somerset levels national nature reserve.

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• Environment
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• Parks, trails and nature reserves

Somerset's National Nature Reserves

Updated 19 October 2023

Applies to England

© Crown copyright 2023

This publication is licensed under the terms of the Open Government Licence v3.0 except where otherwise stated. To view this licence, visit nationalarchives.gov.uk/doc/open-government-licence/version/3 or write to the Information Policy Team, The National Archives, Kew, London TW9 4DU, or email: [email protected] .

Where we have identified any third party copyright information you will need to obtain permission from the copyright holders concerned.

This publication is available at https://www.gov.uk/government/publications/somersets-national-nature-reserves/somersets-national-nature-reserves

Barrington Hill

Barrington Hill NNR is made up of 4 meadows of unimproved, species-rich neutral grassland. This is a habitat rarely found in England.

Main habitats: grassland

Features of interest

In spring, green-winged orchid are particularly plentiful throughout the meadows. Other orchids regularly recorded include the early purple, common twayblade and common spotted varieties. The best time to visit is between early May and early June.

The site is particularly notable for its abundance of rare French oat-grass, a nationally scarce plant and major constituent of the grassland.

The hedgerows (some with large oaks) are also home to a wide range of birds, small mammals and insects. Local butterflies include common blue, meadow brown, speckled wood, brimstone and orange tip.

To maintain the grassland, a late hay cut is taken from each field in July or August. The aftermath growth is then grazed with cattle and/or sheep. Hedgerows are left to grow uncut for a few years to provide habitat for small mammals and birds. A section of hedge is laid each year.

The nearest station is Taunton .

Bus services run from Taunton along the A358 to local villages.

Access to the site is by minor roads from the A358. The entrance to the site is located near Barrington Hill Farm on the minor road from Bickenhall to Horton village. Voluntary car parking charges can be paid in advance or on the day using the RingGo app.

For more information contact Natural England Enquiries, tel. 0300 060 3900 or email [email protected]

Dunkery and Horner Wood

One of the largest NNRs in England, Dunkery and Horner Wood has a variety of  habitats: high moorland with internationally important wet and dry heathland; steeply sloping combe sides with grassland and bracken and ancient woodland.

Main habitats: woodland and moorland

Management: Dunkery and Horner Wood is owned and managed by the National Trust. The majority of the reserve is within the grounds of the Holnicote Estate.

Further information about the NNR , its wildlife and how to visit can be found on  National Trust’s Holnicote Estate web page .

• National Trust

Telephone: 01823 451587 or email: [email protected]  

Hardington Moor

Hardington Moor NNR is made up of 3 meadows of species-rich grassland surrounded by established hedges. These feature more than 100 higher plant species, making the site one of the finest remaining examples of neutral grassland in England.

The nationally scarce French oat-grass is common throughout the reserve. Large numbers of green-winged orchid and adder’s tongue fern can be seen. Other orchids regularly recorded include common spotted, pyramidal, common twayblade, early purple, southern marsh, autumn ladies tresses and greater butterfly.

Butterflies seen on the site include the large skipper, green-veined white, green hairstreak, gatekeeper, common blue and tortoiseshell.

The site is near regional Route 30 (South Somerset Cycle Road) of the Sustrans National Cycle Network and close to the junction with National Route 26 .

The Monarch’s Way and the Liberty Trail both pass near the reserve.

The nearest station is Yeovil .

Local bus services run from Yeovil along the A30.

Hardington Moor is 2.5 miles southwest of Yeovil, off the A30. The reserve is next to Coker Hill Lane from Hardington Mandeville to West Coker.

Hawkcombe Woods

The clean, moist air and sheltered valley of Hawkcombe Woods NNR make these woodlands particularly rich in wildlife and offer a good habitat for a wide range of lichens, mosses and bryophytes.

Main habitats:  woodland

Area: about 100 ha

Management: Hawkcombe Woods NNR is owned and managed by the Exmoor National Park Authority ( ENPA )

Features of interest:

For information on the wood, its wildlife, vegetation and location, visit the ENPA ’s web page on Hawkcombe Wood NNR .

Exmoor National Park Authority ( ENPA )

Telephone: 01398 323 665  or email: [email protected]

Mendip NNR incorporates 2 existing NNRs , Ebbor Gorge and Rodney Stoke, into a  landscape-scale ‘super’ NNR .

With a series of archipelago sites stretching from Tor Woods in England’s smallest city of Wells, across the southern slopes and plateau of the Mendip Hills, ending in Brean Down, a promontory stretching out into the Severn Estuary, it is the second of the King’s Series of National Nature Reserves. It includes iconic sites such as Cheddar Gorge and Crooks Peak, as well as many smaller, lesser-known but fabulously nature-rich sites, predominantly along the south-facing slopes of the Mendip Hills and following along the route of The Mendip Way long-distance recreational path. 

The partnership managing the 31 sites of the National Nature Reserve ( NNR ) consists of:

• Natural England
• Longleat Enterprises Limited
• Avon and Somerset Wildlife Trusts

Butterfly Conservation

The Woodland Trust

• The South West Heritage Trust
• Mendip Hills AONB service

See the declaration notice for details of this latest ‘super’ NNR . 

The Mendip NNR is most important for its large stretches of calcareous grasslands, ancient wooded ravines and stunning geology. Threatened champion species such as adders, dormice, horseshoe bats and skylarks; and woodland and grassland flora, including endemic whitebeam species, and Somerset’s county flower, the Cheddar pink.

The majority of the sites are designated as sites of special scientific interest (SSSI), lie within 3 separate special areas of conservation (SAC’s), and mostly within the national landscape of the Mendip Hills area of outstanding natural beauty (AONB). The  NNR  will form the backbone of nature recovery in this landscape by bringing in 400ha of non-SSSI land where it will be managed with nature conservation as the primary purpose. 

Brean Down  

This site is owned and managed by the National Trust. 

A promontory stretching out into the Severn Estuary, Brean Down is the tapering end of the Mendip Hills, and with its dramatic cliffs above the sea is likened to a ‘natural pier’. The down stands at 97m high and it’s 1.5-mile length offers spectacular views. 

As well as dramatic geology and species-rich downland, Brean Down is home to important archaeology and heritage, including the remains of an Iron Age hillfort and Roman temple, the ruins of a Napoleonic fortress and World War 2 gun platforms.

The National Trust

Tel: 01278 751897

Email: [email protected]

Web: https://www.nationaltrust.org.uk/visit/somerset/brean-down

This site is owned by The South West Heritage Trust and managed by the Mendips Hills AONB Service. 

Blackmoor, also known as Charterhouse lead works,  is a scheduled monument and former Roman and Victorian lead mining area at the top of the southern slopes of the Mendip Hills plateau.

It’s a landscape of remnant borrow pits and spoil heaps from historical lead-mining with associated rare plants.  There are mixed habitats of marsh, open water, limestone heath and rough calcareous and calaminarian grassland. This unusual landscape of historical lead-mining works is home to several rare plant species including alpine pennycress, spring sandwort and hoary cinquefoil. The site is a hotspot for adders.

Web: https://swheritage.org.uk/historic-environment-service/landscapes/blackmoor-heritage-reserve/

Bubwith Acres 

This site is owned and managed by Somerset Wildlife Trust.

The site has a range of habitat types, including unimproved acid grassland, limestone outcrops, unimproved mesotrophic grassland, bracken, scrub and areas of relic heath.

In spring and summer, the varying soils across the site support a range of different wildflowers, and reptiles bask on the dry stone walls and rocky outcrops.

The reserve is managed by light summer grazing with cattle and sheep.

Somerset Wildlife Trust

Tel: 01823 652400 Email: [email protected] Web: https://www.somersetwildlife.org/nature-reserves/bubwith-acres

Cheddar Gorge  

The northern section of the gorge is owned and managed by the National Trust.  The southern section is owned by Longleat Enterprises Ltd and managed by Cheddar Gorge and Caves. 

Cheddar Gorge is one of England’s most iconic and spectacular landscapes. At almost 400 feet deep and 3 miles long, this is England’s largest gorge, and with its weathered crags and pinnacles, one of our countryside’s most spectacular natural sights.  

The site consists of inland cliffs, rocky outcrops, scree slopes, limestone grassland, and ash and oak ravine woodland. Along with the spectacular geology and views, there are many walking trails through woodland and grassland.

Tel: 01278751874 Email: [email protected] Web: https://www.nationaltrust.org.uk/visit/somerset/cheddar-gorge

Cheddar Gorge and Caves

Email: [email protected] Web: https://www.cheddargorge.co.uk/

Cooks Field  

The site consists of flower-rich limestone grassland with traditional hay meadows on the higher, flatter ground. There are panoramic views out over the Somerset Levels, and many bird species pass over here on their annual autumn and spring migrations. The best time of year to visit is in summer, when the wildflowers are in bloom and there are numerous species of butterfly about. 

Email: [email protected] Web: https://www.somersetwildlife.org/nature-reserves/cooks-field

Crook Peak and Wavering Down  

These sites are managed by the National Trust.

Crook Peak is the most westerly of the 6 main summits of the Mendip Hills AONB, and its distinctive 600-foot summit formed of tilted limestone strata can be seen for miles around.

The peak is surrounded by a natural mosaic of species-rich limestone grasslands and ancient woodlands, with exposed limestone outcrops scattered across the southern face of the hill. The variation in habitat across the reserve supports a wide number of species, including lichens, wildflowers, butterflies and rare mammals such as greater horseshoe bats.

Email: [email protected] Web: https://www.nationaltrust.org.uk/visit/somerset/mendip-hills

Deer Leap  

This site is owned by The South West Heritage Trust and managed by the Mendip Hills AONB Service.  

Deer Leap is a scheduled monument and the site of an abandoned medieval farmstead.  It’s an important archaeological and geological site, sitting on limestone grassland that’s managed by traditional grazing practices.

Web: https://swheritage.org.uk/historic-environment-service/landscapes/deer-leap/

Dolebury Warren: hill fort

This site is owned by the National Trust and managed by Avon Wildlife Trust.

Dolebury Warren is the site of an imposing Iron Age hill fort, built 3000 years ago. With spectacular views across north Somerset and the Mendips, today the grassy ramparts and hill slopes are a carpet of wildflowers that attract rare butterflies.   

Avon Wildlife Trust

Tel: 0117 917 7270 Email: [email protected] Web: https://www.avonwildlifetrust.org.uk/nature-reserves/dolebury-warren

Dolebury Warren: woodland  

This site is owned and managed by The Woodland Trust 

Dolebury Warren is mixed broadleaved and coniferous woodland on the northern scarp of the Mendip Hills.  The wood was formerly part of the estate at Mendip Lodge, and is part of the continuous woodland that stretches for many miles along the slope.  

Web: https://www.woodlandtrust.org.uk/visiting-woods/woods/dolebury-warren/

Draycott Sleights  

High on the southern slopes of the Mendip Hills, the reserve consists of steep stretches of limestone grasslands with distinctive rocky outcrops and commanding views towards Exmoor in the west,  and across the Bristol Channel to South Wales to the north.  

Tel: 01823 652400 Email: [email protected] Web: https://www.somersetwildlife.org/nature-reserves/draycott-sleights

Ebbor Gorge 

Ebbor Gorge is predominantly comprised of ancient ash/oak ravine woodland in a prominent position on the southern slopes of the Mendip Hills. It has some stunning geology, including the gorge, scree slopes, rocky outcrops and a significant number of caves. 

Main habitats: ash/ oak ravine woodland, small pockets of calcareous grassland 

The reserve is cut into 2 valleys, Hope Wood Valley, which contains an active stream, and the dry, limestone Ebbor Gorge itself.

The woodlands are mostly ash, but also include oak, wych elm, field maple, whitebeam, beech, hornbeam and hazel. The humidity in Hope Wood encourages the growth of ferns and fungi, with over 250 species of mosses, liverworts and lichens found on site, many of them rare. 

In the spring bluebells, wood anemone and dogs’ mercury cover the woodland floor alongside a wide variety of bryophytes, including the rare Bryum canariense and very rare Amblystegiella confervoides. Small areas of grassland also occur on some of the limestone outcrops and plateaus of the reserve. Grazed by rabbits, these important pockets support varieties of short grass and herbs including common rock-rose, fairy flax, marjoram, wild thyme, common milkwort and quaking grass. Bird’s include buzzard and raven along with mammals such as badger, deer and fox. 

The site’s cave system, formed over millennia as rainwater slowly dissolved the subsurface limestone, have yielded many interesting finds, most recently from the active Gully Cave dig, such as remains of auroch, cave bear, woolly rhino, reindeer and hyaena. Rare lesser and greater horseshoe bats hibernate and roost in the site’s cave systems.  

Cyclists can reach the reserve from the nearby  Route 3  of the Sustrans National Cycle Network. 

The Monarch’s Way  and  Mendip Way - LDWA Long Distance Paths  hiking trails also pass near the reserve. 

The nearest train stations are  Highbridge and Burnham  and  Castle Cary . 

Bus services  run to Wells and Wookey Hole. 

Post code for sat nav:  BA5 1AY 

By car follow signs for Wookey Hole from the A371 in Wells. From Wookey Hole, follow the small minor road towards Priddy. The reserve car park is situated about 1 mile up the hill from Wookey Hole. There is a 6-and-a-half-foot height barrier to the car park. Voluntary car parking charges can be paid in advance or on the day using the RingGo app. 

Natural England Enquiries

Tel: 0300 060 3900

Email:  [email protected]

This site is owned and managed by Somerset Wildlife Trust. 

Named for the distinctive pitted surface left behind by old mining activity, GB Gruffy contains important habitats both above and underground. Above ground is a mosaic of neutral to acid, mesotrophic and calcareous species-rich grassland, which is host to an array of wildflowers throughout spring and summer. Underground there’s a large swallet complex cave system.

Tel: 01823 652400 Email: [email protected] Web: https://www.somersetwildlife.org/nature-reserves/gb-gruffy   

Hellenge Hill   

This site is owned and managed by Avon Wildlife Trust. 

Grassland home to rare plants like honewort and Somerset hair-grass, with spectacular views across the Somerset Levels. 

Tel: 0117 917 7270 Email: [email protected] Web: https://www.avonwildlifetrust.org.uk/nature-reserves/hellenge-hill  

Hutton Hill 

This site is owned and managed by Avon Wildlife Trust.

Hutton Hill is approximately 16Ha of species-rich grassland, with blocks of deciduous woodland. 

Tel: 0117 917 7270 Email: [email protected] Web: https://www.avonwildlifetrust.org.uk/nature-reserves

King’s Castle Wood

Just a mile south-east from the centre of Wells, this ancient semi-natural woodland is situated on a flat-topped promontory of the outlying Mendip Hills, where an Iron Age fort once stood. 

Tel: 01823 652400 Email: [email protected] Web: https://www.somersetwildlife.org/nature-reserves/kings-castle-wood     

Long Wood is currently closed to the public due to the extensive damage caused by ash dieback.

Long Wood is one of 2 sites that  make up the Cheddar Complex.  (The other is Velvet Bottom.) This mixed broadleaved woodland connects the lead mining landscapes of Velvet Bottom, Ubley Warren and Blackmoor SSSIs with Cheddar Gorge.

Tel: 01823 652400 Email: [email protected] Web: https://www.somersetwildlife.org/nature-reserves/cheddar-complex

Lots Grassland  

An upland area of acid limestone heath which is an uncommon habitat on the Mendip Hills and great for heathland flowers where the limestone bedrock of the Mendip Hills changes to sandstone. An unusual feature for the Mendip Hills landscape is the appearance of springs, which makes parts of the site wet all year round. 

Tel: 01823 652400 Email: [email protected] Web: https://www.somersetwildlife.org/nature-reserves/lots-grassland

Lynchcombe  

Lynchcombe is a steeply sloping reserve above the village of Westbury-sub-Mendip adjoining Cook’s Field. It has thin limestone soils with rich grasslands and a short wooded combe. 

Tel: 01823 652400 Email: [email protected] Web: https://www.somersetwildlife.org/nature-reserves/lynchcombe  

Mascall’s Wood 

Mascall’s Wood is an ancient broadleaved woodland with impressive carpets of ground flora in the spring and summer. 

Tel: 01823 652400 Email: [email protected] Web: https://www.somersetwildlife.org/nature-reserves/mascalls-wood

Middledown 

Middledown lies on the Cheddar Plateau, with the rock forming the site a hard, grey Carboniferous Limestone, which is exposed extensively across the reserve as rocky outcrops and low cliffs. The reserve is mostly grassland but with scattered trees and scrub. 

Tel: 01823 652400 Email: [email protected] Web: https://www.somersetwildlife.org/nature-reserves/middledown             

Purn Hill is part of the western Mendips and has panoramic views across the Somerset Levels to the Blackdown and Quantock Hills. It’s a site of special scientific interest (SSSI) and much of the grassland on its slopes is of national importance

Rodney Stoke 

Rodney Stoke has both ancient mixed broadleaf woodland and calcareous grassland and scrub on 2 south-facing spurs on the slopes of the Mendip Hills.

Main habitats: ash/ lime woodland, calcareous grassland 

The woodlands are good example of Mendip ash woodland, also containing, oak, small-leaved lime, hazel and wild service tree, along with a rich woodland groundflora. Many plants on the reserve are characteristic of ancient woodlands, such as wood anemone, nettled-leaved bellflower, meadow saffron and wood spurge. The nationally rare purple gromwell can also be spotted in the woodlands. Continued small scale coppicing and maintenance encourages these rare plants to flourish. 

Conservation grazing of the grassland encourages species such as early-purple orchid, birds foot trefoil, marjoram, rock rose and salad burnet. The many flowers support a range of insects, including many butterfly species such as marbled white, purple hairstreak, brown argus and grayling. 

Pipistrelle and noctule bats roost in the woods and 46 species of breeding birds have been recorded, including buzzards and spotted flycatchers. 

The nearest train station is  Weston-super-Mare . 

Bus services  run between Weston-super-Mare and Wells, stopping at Rodney Stoke. 

The reserve is next to Rodney Stoke village on the A371, 5 miles north west of Wells. There is no public car park for the reserve and parking isn’t possible on the small roads leading to the reserve.  

A major walking trail, the Mendip Way Mendip Way - LDWA Long Distance Paths passes close to the reserve, with a network of smaller Public Rights of Way that lead to the reserve and one which passes down through the centre of the woods and ‘Jessie Weeks field’ in the centre of the two woodland spurs. 

Tel: 0300 060 3900 Email:  [email protected]

Rose Wood  

Rose Wood is currently closed to the public for tree felling works to deal with ash dieback.

This site is owned and managed by Somerset Wildlife Trust  

Rose Wood is mostly comprised of ancient semi-natural woodland, located on the west side of the steeply sloping Shute Shelve Hill.  

Tel: 01823 652400 Email: [email protected] Web: https://www.somersetwildlife.org/nature-reserves/rose-wood  

Stoke Camp 

This site is owned and managed by Butterfly Conservation.

Stoke Camp is 11 hectares of limestone grassland, principally managed for the small blue butterfly, but also for chalkhill blue, grizzled skipper, wall and brown hairstreak butterflies.  

Tel: 01929 400 209 Email:  [email protected] Web: https://butterfly-conservation.org/our-work/reserves/stoke-camp-somerset

The Plantation and Bluebell Field  

This site is owned and managed by The Woodland Trust.

The Plantation and Bluebell Field is a 19th century plantation of predominantly beech, well known for its display of bulbs, particularly bluebells, in springtime. 

Email:  [email protected] Web: https://www.woodlandtrust.org.uk/visiting-woods/woods/the-plantation-bluebell-field/

Tor Hole Fields  

This site is owned and managed by Somerset Wildlife Trust.  

This reserve is made up of 7 fields on the southern slopes of the Mendip Hills and has a rich flora and an important invertebrate community. 

Tel: 01823 652400 Email: [email protected] Web: https://www.somersetwildlife.org/nature-reserves/tor-hole-fields

Tor Hill Woods  

This site is owned and managed by the National Trust 

Small mixed broadleaved woodland on the lower slopes of the Mendip Hills 

Tel: 01278751874 Email: [email protected] Web:   https://www.nationaltrust.org.uk/visit/somerset/mendip-hills

Ubley Warren 

The reserve was once an area of lead mining and there are deep mine shafts on this site. The plant community reflects the toxicity of the soils and supports many nationally rare species. 

Tel: 01823 652400 Email: [email protected] Web: https://www.somersetwildlife.org/nature-reserves/ubley-warren

Velvet Bottom 

Velvet Bottom is one of 2 sites that  make up the Cheddar Complex.  (The other is Long Wood.) The reserve was formed by a long-dried-up river and has been associated with lead mining since the pre-Roman era. 

Tel: 01823 652400 Email: [email protected] Web: https://www.somersetwildlife.org/nature-reserves/cheddar-complex    

Walborough    

This site is owned and managed by Avon Wildlife Trust  .

Limestone grassland stretching down to saltmarsh habitats in the mouth of the River Axe. The reserve is home to rare plants, butterflies and wading birds. 

Tel: 0117 917 7270 Email: [email protected] Web: https://www.avonwildlifetrust.org.uk/nature-reserves/walborough   

Westbury Beacon 

This site is owned and managed by Butterfly Conservation Trust 

At 270 metres above sea level, the reserve has long been an important vantage point and provides spectacular views over the Somerset Levels and the Bristol Channel to Wales and Exmoor. 

Tel: 01929 400 209 Email:  [email protected] Web: https://butterfly-conservation.org/our-work/reserves/westbury-beacon-somerset

Somerset Wetlands

Somerset Wetlands combines 6 existing NNRs : Bridgwater Bay, Ham Wall, Huntspill River, Shapwick Heath, Somerset Levels and Westhay Moor. These NNRs are linked with a significant amount of new land which includes nature reserves and conservation areas managed by Natural England and 6 partners: the Environment Agency; Hawk and Owl Trust; National Trust; RSPB ; Somerset Wildlife Trust and the Wildfowl and Wetland Trust.

See the declaration notice for the ‘super’ reserve.

The Somerset Wetlands National Nature Reserve ( NNR ) is an archipelago of interconnected nature reserves in the Somerset Levels and Moors, which is the largest remaining area of lowland wetland in England. It is also the UK’s second largest area of lowland peat soils. Its range of wetland habitats hold nationally and internationally important populations of wildfowl and wading birds.

The majority of the site is designated as site of special scientific interest (SSSI), special area of conservation (SAC), special protection area (SPA) and Ramsar and forms part of the unique and historic landscape of Somerset, with human habitation from the Neolithic period to the present day.

Combining the 6 original NNRs with other SSSIs and nature conservation-managed land has created an NNR that’s 6138.92 hectares in size – the third largest NNR in England.

Inland, the NNR is a mosaic of wet grassland, fen, mire, reedbed, lakes, waterways and wet woodland, transitioning into floodplain grazing marsh, salt marsh and intertidal mudflats as it reaches out onto the Severn Estuary. These habitats support a wide variety of insects, reptiles, birds and plants that are rarely found elsewhere.

The NNR will form the backbone of nature recovery in this landscape.

Bridgwater Bay

Bridgwater Bay, at the mouth of the Rivers Parrett and Brue on the coast of the Severn Estuary, is one of the largest areas of intertidal mudflats in Britain, and as such is an internationally important feeding and roosting site for many waterfowl and wading birds. It also contains the largest area of saltmarsh in Somerset.

Main habitats: intertidal mudflats, saltmarsh, shingle ridges, reedbed

Most of the reserve is intertidal, the mudflats can be extremely dangerous. Please follow safety recommendations at all times highlighted on signs throughout the reserve.

Around 200 bird species have been recorded at the reserve and flocks of up to several thousand birds, such as dunlin and knot, can be spotted during the winter. The site is also the second largest European moulting ground for shelduck, with up to 4000 birds present each July.

The reed beds support numerous small birds such as reed and sedge warbler whilst skylark nest on adjacent common land. Breeding birds include oystercatcher and ringed plover whose ground-nesting habits are a protected feature of the foreshore. Avocet have returned after being extinct in Somerset for more than 150 years; the first nest was at Bridgwater Bay in 2012. There are now 40 breeding pairs on Steart Marshes. Birds of prey seen on the reserve include peregrines, merlins and sparrowhawks.

Whilst most of the reserve is below high tide there are some smaller areas that have been colonised by interesting plant communities. Notable species include rock sea-lavender, tree mallow, Ray’s knotgrass and sea radish.

See the site information leaflet for more details.

The nearest train station is Bridgwater .

Bus services from Bridgwater are provided by First Group . Some routes run along the A39 and serve local villages.

Access is along minor roads from the A39 (M5). There is a car park near the reserve at Steart village and non-designated parking areas near the coastline. Voluntary car parking charges can be paid in advance or on the day using the RingGo app.

The reserve can also be accessed on the Parrett Trail, which follows the river from its source to the Bristol Channel and passes through Bridgwater, as well as English Coast Path.

Email:  [email protected] Telephone: 01278 651090

Burrow Mump – the tiny Tor

Like its better-known cousin, Glastonbury Tor, Burrow Mump is a prominent hill and iconic feature at the heart of the Somerset Levels and Moors landscape. The ruins of a church at its summit is a scheduled ancient monument and Grade 2 listed building. The church was built on top of an earlier medieval church and now serves as a war memorial to those who lost their lives in the Second World War.

The Mump boasts panoramic views across the landscape, overlooking Southlake Moor and the confluence of the Rivers Parrett and Tone.

Main habitats; neutral grassland.

A small carpark is run by the National Trust and free to use, and the summit is just a short climb, perfect for picnics in the sunshine during the summer holidays.

Nearest postcode: TA7 0RB

Catcott Complex

Catcott Complex, in the Avalon Marshes area of the Brue valley catchment, is a site restored from former arable fields. It’s managed by Somerset Wildlife Trust.

The reinstatement of wet grazing meadows with scrapes and gripes installed have created the perfect splashy conditions for a range of wetland waders and waterfowl appropriate to this landscape. Traditionally-managed hay meadows, small areas of fen and wet woodland complete the wetland mosaic. This encourages a range of bird species to feed, breed and roost all year round and it has become internationally renowned for its birdlife.

This site is also an important habitat for otter, water vole, wetland invertebrates and great crested newts. The reserve is made up of Catcott Lows and Catcott Heath.

Main habitats: wet grassland, fen, wet woodland.

Further information about the NNR , its wildlife and how to visit is on the Somerset Wildlife Trust website .

Telephone: 01823 652400 Email: [email protected]

Located in the Parrett valley catchment of the Somerset Wetlands, this site is restored from the former arable fields known as the ‘Shapwick Allotments’. Now composed of a mosaic of wetland habitats ranging from reedbed, open water, rough grassland, willow scrub and wet grassland. This has attracted a wide range of bird, mammal, plant, insect and reptile species.

Main habitats: Reedbed, open water, ditches, wet grassland, willow scrub

All these habitats are in close proximity to good access routes and hides. The trails meander through the reedbed and scrub and alongside the ditches and open water, whilst the hides and screens give great views over the wet grassland. Lapwing, redshank and snipe can be seen nesting in the spring and vast flocks of ducks and waders, being hunted by birds of prey in the winter.

A small car park gives easy access to the network of footpaths and viewing hides.

Further information about the NNR , its wildlife and how to visit is on the RSPB website .

RSPB Greylake

Email: [email protected] Telephone: 01458 252805

Ham Wall reserve, part of the Avalon Marshes in the Brue valley area of the Somerset Wetlands, is an internationally important site for wetland birds and contains one of the largest areas of reedbed in southern England and is the stronghold of the bittern, brought back from near extinction in Somerset in the 1990s. Created from old peat workings the site is composed of lakes, reedbeds, wet scrub, wet grassland and woodland. These habitats support a wealth of wildlife including bittern, marsh harrier, bearded reedling, Cetti’s warbler, water vole and otter.

A network of trails, viewing platforms and hides along its route provide stunning views across the landscape, and of a wide range of wetland birds. There is a large car park, welcome building and toilets. The South Drain, with its adjacent footpath runs through the centre of the reserve, and can be easily accessed from National Route 3 of the Sustrans National Cycle Network.

Main habitats: Reedbed, open water, ditches

Management: Ham Wall NNR is owned and managed by the Royal Society for the Protection of Birds ( RSPB )

Further information about the NNR , its wildlife and how to visit can be found on the RSPB ’s website .

Telephone: 01458 860494 or email: [email protected]

Huntspill River

This artificial river, dug in 1940 to provide water for a royal ordnance factory, is the continuation of the South Drain which runs through and connects Shapwick Heath and Ham Wall reserves further up in the Brue Valley catchment. The waterway contains large stocks of coarse fish, is home to otters, with adjacent grassland containing an interesting diversity of flora, as well as being a good breeding area for barn owls.

Main habitats: open water, lowland grassland and ditches.

Management: Huntspill River  NNR  is owned and managed by the Environment Agency.

There is permitted access for much of the river along both sides. For access details contact the Environment Agency’s North Wessex team on 08708 506 506. 

Westwards the site extends as far as the estuary of the River Parrett where it enters Bridgwater Bay. Eastward it extends to its junction with the Cripps River, 2.5 kilometres north east of the village of Woolavington.

In the winter the Huntspill is used to clear flood water from agricultural land in the Brue valley, and in the summer provides water for wet fences on surrounding agricultural land, it is filled by water from local peat moors. With its large population of coarse fish, the reserve is popular with local angling associations.

Most of the grassland on the banks of the river is leased for haymaking or grazing by cattle and sheep. Artificial holts (homes) have been built for otters and boxes for barn owls, who use the nearby grassland as a hunting ground, it also has a good population of water voles.

The reeds and scrub along the river provide good habitat for sedge, reed and cetti’s warblers. With the remains of Romano-British salt works found on site, the area is of some archaeological interest. 

Several roads cross the Huntspill, the three largest being the M5, A38 and B3141.

The nearest train station is in Bridgwater .

Local bus services are provided by First Group .

King’s Sedgemoor Drain, South Drain and Sowy River Relief Channel

King’s Sedgemoor Drain is situated in the Parrett valley catchment and is an artificial drainage channel which diverts the River Cary along the southern flank of the Polden Hills, to discharge into the River Parrett at Dunball near Bridgwater.  It’s managed by the Environment Agency.

As the name suggests, the channel is used to help drain the peat moors of King’s Sedgemoor. The main channel was constructed between 1791 and 1795, and despite some defects, brought some relief from flooding to the area. The drain was upgraded during the Second World War, to provide a backup water supply for an armaments factory at Puriton, and again in 1972. The drain connects the King’s Sedgemoor and Greylake sites of the Somerset Wetlands NNR .

The River Sowy Relief Channel is a man-made embanked flood relief channel that runs from Monks Leaze clyce, just short of a mile north west of Langport River bridge, to the Kings Sedgemoor Drain in the Parrett valley. Approximately 7.5 miles in length, it flows for approximately 1.5 miles in a westerly direction to Oath, to the north of the embankment which separates it from the River Parrett, this embankment carries the River Parrett Trail. The waterway connects the Somerset Wetland NNR sites of Southlake Moor and King’s Sedgemoor.

The raised embankment upstream of Staithe Bridge provides a commanding view of Aller Moor and during the winter good views of wintering birds and cranes can often be had.

The South Drain is situated in the Brue valley catchment and is a manmade drain, constructed between 1802 and 1806 as a result of the 1801 Brue Drainage Act. It runs from Actis Tunnel to Gold Corner, where it moves on to the Huntspill River. It flows through the Ham Wall, Shapwick Heath and Westhay Heath sections of the Somerset Wetlands NNR .

Environment Agency General Enquiries National Customer Contact Centre PO Box 544 Rotherham S60 1BY

Email: [email protected]

Telephone: 03708 506 506

Shapwick Heath

Located at the heart of the Avalon Marshes area in the Brue valley catchment of the Somerset Wetlands NNR , Shapwick Heath is an internationally important site for wetland birds and is composed of a mosaic of wetland habitats including traditional wildflower meadows, a network of ditches, fen, mire and wet woodland, along with open water and reed beds restored from former peat-diggings.

Main habitats: wet grassland, wet woodland, open water and reedbeds, pockets of remnant fen and mire, ditches

Approximately 65 different species of birds have been recorded as nesting here, including bittern, great white egret, marsh harrier, Cetti’s warbler and bearded reedling. Many species of dragonflies and butterfly abound in the summer months including the hairy and emperor dragonflies and purple hairstreak, white admiral and silver-washed fritillary butterflies. There is also an impressive migration of hobbies that arrive in the spring from tropical Africa. A range of wetland invertebrate find their niches here.

Over 24 different mammals have also been seen at Shapwick, including greater and lesser horseshoe bats, water voles and otters.

Dogs are not permitted on this reserve, with the exception of registered assistance dogs.

Shapwick Heath is also the location of the Neolithic ‘Sweet Track’, a scheduled ancient monument and the oldest man-made trackway in Britain, preserved in the anaerobic conditions of the reserves wet peat soils.

The South Drain, with its adjacent footpath, runs through the centre of the reserve, and can be easily accessed from National Route 3 of the Sustrans National Cycle Network. There is a network of trails and viewing hides across the reserve where stunning views across the landscape can be enjoyed.

Visitor information, parking, a café and public toilets can be found at the Avalon Marshes Centre, 200m from the main reserve entrance on Shapwick Road and a smaller car park can be accessed on the Ashcott Road entrance opposite Ham Wall.

See the site visitor leaflet for more details.

The reserve is close to National Route 3 of the Sustrans National Cycle Network. Public transport access to Shapwick Heath is very limited. For information, see the Traveline South West website.

From J23 on the M5 take the A39 Bridgwater to Glastonbury Road. After 6 miles take the minor road left, signed Shapwick. Enter Shapwick Village and at the church continue north, following the brown tourist sign for Shapwick Heath NNR . Voluntary car parking charges can be paid in advance or on the day using the RingGo app.

For more information about the reserve, to discuss school visits or volunteering opportunities contact Natural England Enquiries, tel. 0300 060 3900 or email [email protected]

Shapwick Moor

Shapwick Moor was acquired by The Hawk and Owl Trust in 2007 and is land which had previously been used to grow a variety of arable crops. It is being carefully restored to flower-rich, semi-natural grassland and fen and welcoming wildlife back as these changes are made and the habitat is regenerated.

Main habitat: wet grassland, fen, ditches.

Rough grass margins will encourage owls and other birds of prey and the small mammals they feed on. Raising the water levels will protect the peat soils, which were being damaged by regular ploughing, and preserve the archaeological features hidden there. Further habitat improvements include restoring the old hedges and pollarded willows, re-profiling the ditch banks and edges to make them more suitable for wildlife and encouraging reedbed to develop along some of the ditches.

Shapwick Moor Nature Reserve forms a part of the Avalon Marshes complex of reserves in the Brue valley catchment of the Somerset Wetlands NNR , at the heart of the Somerset Levels. Avalon Marshes is a vibrant, working landscape, celebrated for its rich wildlife, heritage and culture. A small car park serves a walking route which encompasses two viewing hides and continues into the adjacent Shapwick Heath reserve.

Further information about the NNR , its wildlife and how to visit can be found on the Hawk and Owl Trust website .

Somerset Levels

This NNR is closed because either:

• the site is unsafe
• our tenure of the land does not allow public access
• the site is so fragile that any form of access would damage its habitats and/or wildlife

The former ‘Somerset Levels NNR ’ includes land owned by Natural England across the Somerset Levels and Moors farmed landscape. It is composed of species-rich wet grassland, traditional hay meadows and ditch networks, and is of outstanding importance for wintering waders and waterfowl and breeding wetland birds. Grasslands and ditches contain a number of red data book and nationally notable plant species.

The majority of the land is managed through agri-environment scheme agreements with local tenant farmers. Sites include land in the SSSI designated areas of Tealham and Tadham Moors, Westhay Moor, Catcott, Edington and Chilton Moors in the Brue valley catchment and Moorlinch, King’s Sedgemoor, Southlake Moor and West Sedgemoor in the Parrett valley catchment.

Main habitats: lowland grassland, ditches

Views of Southlake Moor can be seen from Burrow Mump and from the public footpath, part of the Parrett Trail which runs along the banks of the River Parrett.

Steart Marshes

Steart Marshes is situated on the Steart peninsula, which reaches out into Bridgwater Bay on the edge of the River Parrett as it discharges into the Severn Estuary.

Steart Marshes is a managed re-alignment scheme and wetland reserve created by the Wildfowl & Wetlands Trust (WWT) and the Environment Agency as mitigation for rising sea levels and coastal squeeze.

Main habitats: saltmarsh, estuarine creeks, freshwater wetlands

Here hundreds of hectares of saltmarsh and freshwater wetlands provide a wild and peaceful haven for people and a huge variety of wildlife. The reserve is also a ‘living laboratory’ demonstrating how wetlands can lock away carbon, reduce the impacts of floodwater and provide biodiverse habitat supporting a rich mix of wetland wildlife including otters, fish and thousands of migratory birds.

Further information about the NNR , its wildlife and how to visit can be found on the Wildfowl & Wetlands Trust website .

Email: [email protected] Telephone: 01278 651090

The ancient oaks at RSPB Swell Wood are part of a strip of woodland extending 10 miles along the limestone ridge that runs from Langport to the Blackdown Hills.

It’s home to one of the UK’s largest heronries and you can see nesting grey herons and little egrets between March and June.

The woodlands that extend east towards Curry Rivel are carpeted in bluebells in the spring, and nuthatches and woodpeckers feed at the car park bird feeders in winter.

Further information about the reserve, its wildlife and how to visit can be found on the RSPB website .

Tealham and Tadham Moors

• the tenure of the land does not allow public access

Tealham and Tadham Moors, in the Brue valley catchment of the Somerset Wetlands NNR , is a 917.6 hectare (2267.3 acre) biological site of special scientific interest (SSSI) and forms part of the extensive grazing marsh and ditch systems of the Somerset Levels and Moors. The site is managed by Somerset Wildife Trust through local graziers

Main habitats: wet grassland, ditch network.

The water table is high throughout the greater part of the year, with winter flooding occurring annually, by over-topping of the River Brue. 113 aquatic and bankside vascular plant species have been recorded from the field ditches, rhynes and deep arterial watercourses. A diverse invertebrate fauna is associated in particular with ditches that have a good submerged plant community. The water beetle fauna is exceptionally rich, with the nationally rare species Hydrophilus piceus and Hydrochara caraboides together with the rare soldier flies Stratiomys furcata and Odontomyia ornata. Good numbers of dragonflies and damselflies occur including the Hairy Dragonfly (Brachytron pratense) and the Variable Damselfly (Coenagrion pulchellum).

West Sedgemoor

West Sedgemoor is a large expanse of wet grassland, situated in the Parrett valley catchment of the Somerset Wetlands NNR . It’s managed by the RSPB .

In winter, the controlled flooding on the wet meadows attracts birds in their thousands - ducks such as wigeons, teals, shovelers, pintails and mallards and wading birds such as golden plovers, snipe and lapwings.

Main habitats: wet grassland, ditches, hedgerows

To keep the hay meadows and pastures ideal for wildlife, we control water levels, graze cattle and cut hay to create ideal habitats for ground-nesting birds. The hay meadow management is also especially important for the rare plant communities that West Sedgemoor is famous for. Hedgerows are managed using traditional methods benefitting birds, small mammals and butterflies. Water voles and otters are also present.

RSPB West Sedgemoor Red Hill Curry Rivel Langport TA10 0PH

Email: [email protected] Telephone: 01458 252805

Westhay Heath

Westhay Heath, situated in the Brue valley catchment of the Somerset Wetlands NNR , is a small wetland reserve consisting of restored peat-diggings.

Main habitats: lake, reedbed, ditches, wet woodland.

Important for wintering wetland birds, otters, water voles and specialist wetland invertebrates such as water beetles and dragonflies.

Westhay Moor

Westhay Moor, part of the Avalon Marshes area in the Brue valley catchment of the Somerset Wetlands, was created from former peat diggings and has been transformed into a network of open water and reedbed and wet woodland. It is home to a wide range of wetland birds and invertebrates. It contains the largest surviving fragment of lowland acid mire in the South-West, where specialist plants such as sphagnum moss and the carnivorous round-leaved sundew can be seen. Some of its notable species are bittern, marsh harrier, bearded reedling, water vole, otter, as well as hairy and emperor dragonflies.

Main habitats: open water, reedbeds, wet woodland, wet grassland, mire.

The site has a small car park and a network of trails, viewing platforms and hides. It is the only location in the Somerset Wetlands NNR where an area of the Somerset Levels and Moors original habitat can be seen by the public.

Management: Westhay Moor is owned and managed by the Somerset Wildlife Trust

Further information about the NNR , its wildlife and how to visit can be found on the Somerset Wildlife Trust’s Westhay Moor NNR web page.

Telephone: 01823 652400 or email: [email protected]

Tarr Steps Woodland

Tarr Steps Woodland NNR has an outstanding example of a ‘clapper bridge’- an ancient form of bridge constructed entirely from large stone slabs and boulders. This is set in a mossy woodlands crossed by a number of pathways.

Main habitats: woodland

Area: 33 ha

Management: Tarr Steps Woodland is owned and managed by Exmoor National Park Authority

Further information about the NNR , its wildlife and how to visit can be found on the Exmoor National Park Authority’s Tarr Steps Woodland NNR web page.

Telephone: 01398 323665  or email: [email protected]  

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Somerset Levels & Moors

Description

The Internationally important Somerset Levels and Moors stretch from the clay-based coastal plains across peat-based Avalon Marshes to the feet of the Mendip and Blackdown Hills.

SOMERSET LEVELS At the heart of Somerset and giving the County its name, are the internationally important Levels and Moors. Among the lowest, flattest areas in the UK, they were once covered by sea apart from the curious mumps and mounds that rose above them as islands. Somerset is therefore ‘the land of the summer people’ as the rich grazing pastures of the Levels were only accessible in the drier months.  To reach the grasslands from the ‘islands’, prehistoric people built raised wooden tracks, of which there is still evidence today. The most famous is the ‘Neolithic’ period' Sweet Track at Shapwick. The Romans tried managing the Levels but did not have as much success as the monks of Glastonbury. Dutch engineers eventually drained them in the 17th century but thankfully not until after King Alfred had used the marshes to escape the Vikings or English history might have taken a different turn. Still farmed and used for growing willow, the wetlands attract huge numbers of wading birds including the reintroduced Common Crane.  The Polden Ridge cuts across them as do a handful of rivers and numerous smaller waterways.

Sudden and unexpected viewpoints rise mysteriously having once formed islands in a flooded plain.

The result is a unique patchwork landscape steeped in history and brimming with rare wildlife.

As well as supporting a huge array of plant and bird species, the Somerset Levels and Moors are dotted with quaint  villages  which bear witness to the fact they have been exploited by people since the earliest times.

The Avalon Marshes is home to the world’s oldest known wooden trackway and ancient lake villages.

The second largest haul of Roman coins ever found was discovered here.

In the middle ages the monks from nearby monasteries drained much of the land to farm it.

This is where King Alfred the Great lived and the legends of King Arthur still resonate.

Today the area is mostly grassland and arable with willow grown commercially.

It is a magnet for nature lovers and those with creative and artistic talents who have workshops and galleries here.

With its fabulously rich wildlife it enjoys special protection and supports a number of reserves.

It has the largest lowland population of breeding wading birds and is a great place to hear bittern, see starling murmurations and watch otters.

Often overlooked, the Somerset Levels and Moors offer the chance to relax and unwind; to see rare species of plant, bird and animals under a wide expanse of sky surrounded by tranquil waterscapes.

Off the beaten track it is well served by footpaths and  cycle  routes as well as outlets for local crafts and produce.

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The exhilaration of hanging your life on a rope is immense.

Experience one of Mendip’s year-round rocksport activities.

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Great Holiday Park just yards from the beautiful Sand Bay Beach

B&B guesthouse in weston super mare, somerset.

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The Somerset Levels (Day Trip)

An exciting day on the wonderful Somerset Levels in search of a whole host of special species.

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Quick enquiry.

Join local naturalists Chris Griffin or Oliver Smart for a wonderful day of wildlife on the famous Somerset Levels, including the chance to witness the magical movements, murmurations and acrobatics of up to a million roosting Starlings! The Somerset Levels spans around 650 square kilometres between the Quantock and Mendip Hills and is made up of vast reedbeds, open pasture, flooded fields and endless wet ditches and open bodies of water.

• Enjoy the aerial artistry of a million-strong Starlings as they gather at dusk prior to roosting
• Birds of prey including Marsh Harrier and Peregrine with large concentrations of wintering wildfowl & waders
• Bittern, Great White Egret, and Bearded Tit regularly seen

During the winter months the area is inundated with wildfowl and waders and we will enjoy large numbers of wintering duck including, Pintail, Wigeon, Teal and Gadwall. Marsh Harriers quarter the reedbeds and with luck, we may see Bittern which has thrived here in recent years. Great White Egrets are now a fairly common sight here alongside Little Egrets, while Cattle Egrets are also possible. We will hope to find Bearded Tit too while the alder-lined channels may hold noisy flocks of Siskin and Redpoll, as Cetti’s Warblers blast their explosive call and Water Rails squeal from reedbeds. Otter sightings are also becoming more frequent here and we will be keeping our eyes sharp for this charismatic mustelid.

As dusk falls we shall conclude the day in spectacular fashion by watching the Starlings gathering before going to roost in their favoured reedbed. If a Peregrine or Sparrowhawk is around they often cause the wonderful murmurations and with numbers in excess of one million birds being possible, it is a very special experience. The highlights of the day are sure to be many as we explore the area with leisurely walks on open, flat paths. We will make one short drive between sites and can expect to cover around 6 to 7 miles across the course of the day.

Day Trip Location

We had a wonderful day out bird watching on the Somerset Levels, with a total tally of 61 bird species. Our trip was organised by Naturetrek, who in my opinion are one of the best operators when it comes to Natural History tours. Our guide - Oliver Smart was extremely knowledgeable and we all learnt lots on the day, which will be very useful on future outings. I would highly recommend this trip and Naturetrek to anyone interested in Birding and Natural History. We have travelled with Naturetrek before and they are my go to tour operator for Natural History trips. Highly professional, seamless communication and organisation. Their guides are second to none. I recommend them to all.Their website is a mine of information and easy to navigate. They deserve all the accolades they have received. L.S. Avon, Mar 22

It was a day of bird watching in the Somerset Levels. We spent time on nature reserves with a wonderful guide who showed us things we'd never have seen alone. The day culminated in a spectacular murmuration of starlings. He was unbelievably knowledgeable and a brilliant teacher, and very generous in setting up his telescope to make sure we had the best close-ups at every turn. He was very patient with all our questions and lovely company for the day.  E.M. London, Dec 21

A small group of us spent a December day exploring reserves on the Somerset Levels selected by our expert guide. He had experience of working on the Levels and so was able to guide us to the right places to make the most of the rather gloomy December weather. We saw birds that I would have never found on my own and it was interesting to learn about the management of the reserves from someone who had been directly involved. The day concluded with a starling murmuration happening over and around us.  The sight and sounds of thousands of starlings overhead was brilliant and a privilege to behold. A.B. Cornwall, Dec 21

Day trip with wildlife guide / photographer in the reserves of the Somerset levels. Birding, dragonflies, plants, mammals. Small group of six like minded enjoying our own version of "Springwatch". Well established wildlife tour operator with incredibly high standard of professionalism and customer care. Have used these company for many trips abroad over many years. They have never let us down and always exceeded expectations. A company that really knows it's stuff! M.L. Hampshire, Jun 21

Day trip to Somerset Levels with just 3 people and incredibly personable, knowledgeable guide. I was the least experienced member of the group and made to feel equally welcome. Good logistics, rendezvous point with loos, and felt totally safe with covid arrangements. This was my first day out since the start of the pandemic - I felt like I'd travelled a million miles to the RSPB reed beds and water reserve. Amazing landscape. Great guided bird sightings - and heard several rare bitterns. Our guide was impressive in his knowledge, experience, his clear passion for sharing his love of birds and nature to others. Brilliant concept to have been able to continue offering, and building on their day trip formula. Recommend highly to anyone. Thank you Chris, our guide. L.T. Warwickshire, May 21

Wildlife and nature trip to the Somerset Levels concentrating on birds but also including other wildlife such as flowers, insects, reptiles and mammals. As an amateur wildlife photographer I was able to take hundreds of photos and had a wonderful time. Highly recommended wildlife and nature tour operator. Super trips and great knowledgeable tour leaders. Excellent staff and service on the phone when booking. I have another trip confirmed for this year and an overseas trip pending. 3 trips pencilled in overseas for next year. Highly recommend Naturetrek to all my friends. B.W. Middlesex, May 21

Our Naturetrek day outing in the Somerset Levels was a great success. Our guide Oliver was very knowledgeable and had tremendous powers of observation, spotting things which I would never have seen on my own! He took great care to involve all the participants, ensuring that everyone had a positive experience.  There was a very good range of wildlife on display and the whole day was thoroughly enjoyable. S.C. Hertfordshire, May 21

One of Naturetrek's excellent day trips, the fourth I have been on. The guide, Chris Griffin, was very knowledgeable and good fun to be with and we saw 50 species of bird in the day. I know the Levels fairly well but it was very enjoyable to explore as part of a small group with and expert guide. P.W. Hampshire, May 21

This was a day trip near home, and I took two friends, who had never been birdwatching, nor had they met Naturetrek, or even been to the Levels and they, and I, thought it a fantastic day out. The Naturetrek guide was, as always, really knowledgeable, keen, excited to show us ‘his’ sites and birds. His excitement was catching of course, and went a long way to make the day as superb as it was. This is a really good response to the Covid restrictions. N.C. Somerset, Dec 20

We went for a day trip to the Somerset Levels. We were guided by Oliver Smart who was extremely knowledgeable and helpful and we saw and heard some very exciting birds. It culminated in a wonderful starling murmuration, and Oliver found us two very good vantage points. E.S. Worcestershire, Dec 20

A very enjoyable day led by Chris Griffin. He shared his in depth knowledge of the area and wildlife. We saw so much more than had we been on our own. Chris identified all the birds many of which we would have missed without his guidance.  K.P. Berkshire, Dec 20

Why Naturetrek?

At Naturetrek we craft expertly-guided group and tailor-made wildlife holidays and cruises to all seven continents. On one of our holidays, you can be assured that our passionate team will enable you to experience and enjoy the best of the world's wildlife and natural spectacles in as comfortable and rewarding a manner as possible, caring as best we can for the environment in the process. We are proud to provide:

• The widest choice of wildlife holidays worldwide
• Tours managed and led by naturalists, for naturalists
• Outstanding value and exceptional customer service

Furthermore, as a Naturetrek client, our office team are always to on hand to help you – so if you have any queries about your holiday, whether before or after you have booked, we will be delighted to answer them on the phone. Please just give our team a call!

Related articles

Louise Larkinson travelled on our 'Forest of Dean and the Somerset Levels' holiday and submitted this entry to our writing competition.