The Most Beautiful Nature Reserves in the UK

Warmer weather calls for exploring the great outdoors – and what better way to do so than a trip to one of the most beautiful nature reserves in the UK? The perfect way to spend a sunny afternoon, head to the country and bring the kids, a picnic, perhaps some champagne, and soak up the surroundings.

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The Most Beautiful Nature Reserves In The UK

Banstead Woods

Once owned by various Queens of England, Knights of the Realm and known as Henry VIII’s private hunting ground, Banstead Woods is a lush nature reserve in Surrey. Particularly worth a visit in spring when the bluebells flourish, the reserve also makes a great day out for little ones who can explore the Ancient Woodland, which has been around since Medieval times. woodlandtrust.org.uk

(c) Andy Hay via rspb-images.com

Insh Marshes

Head to this woodland haven in the Scottish Highlands to spot fascinating wildlife such as Lapwing, Snipe and Curlew. Regarded as one of the most important wetland areas in Europe, the spectacular Insh Marshes is spread over 10 kilometres. rspb.org.uk

Pensthorpe Natural Park

Having been titled a European Special Area Of Conservation, this 700-acre nature reserve in Norfolk continues to protect the array of wildlife which inhabits it, from Eurasian Cranes to Corncrakes and Red Squirrels. pensthorpe.com

Donna Nook

Spot adorable seals at this nature reserve in Lincolnshire. Donna Nook stretches over 10 kilometers between the north and south. Visit in the winter, between November and December, to see the seals which come to the coastline to give birth on the sand dunes. lincstrust.org.uk

Bystock Nature Reserve

If you’re searching for somewhere tranquil to escape to, head straight to Devon and into the Bystock Nature Reserve. Sit by the pools adorned with delicate waterlillies and spot the Gold-ringed and Emporor Dragonflies that call it home. devonwildlifetrust.org

Loch Garten

Another Scottish gem, Loch Garten nature reserve in Abernethy benefits from the backdrop of mountains and features a pineforest and moorland. Admire the wildlife from a viewing point or take part in a guided walk to learn all about the nature reserve’s environment. rspb.org.uk

Woodwalton Fen

This nature reserve in Cambridgeshire is one of significant importance, providing habitat for thousands of species of fen animals, many of which are now only found in the UK. Stroll through the woodland and reedbeds where you’ll pass cows lazily grazing and birds chattering away above your head. greatfen.org.uk

Featured Image: Bystock Reserve (c) Dave Chamberlain.