Paxton Pits Nature Reserve

Paxton Pits Nature Reserve is a 77-hectare site combining lakes, meadows, grasslands, scrub, and woodlands that create distinct habitats across the landscape. Over 200 bird species can be found here throughout the year, taking advantage of the varied conditions these different zones provide.

The land was once used for gravel extraction but was transformed into a protected wetland during the early 1990s. This conversion created an essential wildlife sanctuary that continues to serve as a conservation area today.

The site hosts educational programs where visitors learn about the local ecology and discover how to observe wildlife through guided activities and hands-on experiences.

The Visitor Centre is open daily and offers refreshments, bird food, and reading materials alongside mobility support for those who need it. The pathways through the landscape allow you to explore at your own pace, and equipment rentals or guided walks can enhance bird-watching experiences.

Between April and June, nightingales arrive to breed, making the site a key location for hearing and observing these birds. The lakes also serve as a national stronghold for dragonfly diversity, with many uncommon species thriving in the water habitats.

GPS coordinates: 52.25420,-0.24830

Latest update: December 14, 2025 14:24