Debbie North finds some of the best wheelchair-friendly reserves for spring wildlife watching
01 WATERMEADS NATURE RESERVE, SOUTH LONDON
Reopened to the public in 2015, this revitalised nature reserve at Morden Hall Park was, in 1913, one of the first sites acquired by the National Trust. The wetlands provide a haven for an abundance of wildlife including kingfishers, herons and dragonflies. The paths around the reserve are mainly level and suitable for wheelchair users. nationaltrust.org.uk
02 CHILDWALL WOODS, MERSEYSIDE
With accessible paths and trails throughout, this six-hectare woodland and local nature reserve in the south-east suburbs of Liverpool is vibrant with colourful bluebells, celandines, marsh-orchids and buttercup-covered grasslands in April. Keep an eye out for voles and bats and hunt for all 16 of the woods’ veteran trees. fcwf.org.uk
03 CRAIGELLACHIE NATIONAL NATURE RESERVE, HIGHLAND
Minutes from Aviemore, Craigellachie is one of nine national nature reserves in and around the Cairngorms. With tree-fringed lochs and a beautfiul accessible route through the silver birch woodland and open glades, Craigellachie is the perfect getaway for those seeking peace and tranquillity. Look for buzzards above the woods and peregrine falcons descending from the high crags. nature.scot
04 CLATTERINGSHAWS, DUMFRIES AND GALLOWAY
A truly accessible experience awaits visitors to Clatteringshaws in Galloway Forest Park. Enjoy panoramic loch-side views over the Galloway Hills from the visitor centre. Across the water is Merrick, southern Scotland’s highest hill, and the Rhinns of Kells range. From here you can wander alongside the loch to Bruce’s Stone, where the Scottish king Robert the Bruce is said to have rested. forestryandland.gov.scot
05 CARNMONEY HILL, COUNTY ANTRIM
Enjoy an easy wander around the pond at the foot of the broadleaf woodland, where 60,000 native trees have been recently planted as part of a large-scale woodland creation project. In the spring, primroses, bluebells, and dog violets form a captivating carpet of colour; visit in summer for a glorious display of cornflowers and red campions. woodlandtrust.org.uk
06 RSPB TITCHWELL MARSH, NORFOLK
The Norfolk coastline is known as the birdwatching capital of England, and it’s easy to see why. Titchwell Marsh is home to resident and migrant birds including marsh harriers, avocets and bitterns, plus a plethora of marine life. There are reedbeds, freshwater lagoons, salt marshes, woodlands and beaches to explore, with fabulous views across The Wash. rspb.org.uk
07 CROMWELL BOTTOM NATURE RESERVE, WEST YORKSHIRE
Nestled in the Calder Valley is a former quarry and landfill site that has been reclaimed for nature. Discover wildlife-rich woodlands, grasslands, wetlands and ponds teeming with life – perfect for dipping – along smooth wheelchair-friendly paths at Cromwell Bottom Local Nature Reserve. A RADAR key is needed to fully open the gate for easier access. visitcalderdale.com