There are so many beautiful sites across West Berkshire to visit this spring
Justine Farrant from the Berkshire, Buckinghamshire & Oxfordshire Wildlife Trust suggests a few favourite places to get outdoors this spring.
AS April comes to an end, the sights and sounds of spring fill our nature reserves.
This is an exciting time to explore some of the region’s most beautiful landscapes, where wildflowers bloom, birds begin their courtship displays and the world unfurls itself under big blue skies.
For those looking to spend some time outside after being cooped up through winter, these local spots offer a wonderful escape into nature.
Hosehill Lake near Theale is perfect for those seeking peace and relaxation.
Surrounded by meadows, ponds, and reedbeds, this serene lake is a wonderful place to watch the return of summer migrants.
Swallows and house martins are among the first to arrive, followed by swifts later in the season.
Ten minutes down the road, lies the hidden woodland gem, Moor Copse, which offers more tranquillity along the River Pang.
The woodland and meadow flowers begin to carpet the ground this time of year, and birds can be heard singing from the trees.
Moor Copse is renowned for its butterflies and moths, making it a particularly great destination for ecology enthusiasts.
In Oxfordshire, one of the most breathtaking sights is found at Iffley Meadows.
Here, the iconic snake’s-head fritillaries emerge in their thousands, painting the meadow with hues of purple and white.
The sight is a true testament to the success of BBOWT’s conservation efforts.
When the trust first began managing the reserve in 1983 just 500 fritillaries could be found.
Today, thanks to careful management, that number has soared to over 89,000 in a good year.
This annual spectacle is a sight you won’t want to miss.
The meadows can be a
little rough underfoot and there are wet patches year-round, so sturdy footwear is essential.
The fritillary count later this spring will reveal how this year’s wet winter has affected their numbers, so be sure to look out for the results.
Not far from Iffley, Chimney Meadows offers another stunning spring experience.
As the grasslands bloom with a variety of wildflowers, including cowslips as the first to appear, the reserve transforms into a vibrant tapestry of colour.
Chimney Meadows is also an important habitat for wading birds, such as curlew, which breed there.
Listen out for their distinctive cur-lee calls which fill the air.
A new raised observation platform, located just off the Thames Path, offers sweeping views and is the perfect spot to pause and take in the beauty of the surroundings.
Some paths and hides are accessible for those with limited mobility and there’s a tramper available on select days, so it’s worth contacting BBOWT for more details before your visit.
Further west, College Lake in Buckinghamshire is bustling with life as the breeding season begins.
Lapwings soar high above the lake, performing their acrobatic flight displays, while great crested grebes dance together in their ‘weed dance’ courtship ritual.
Further south, Bernwood Meadows in Bucks is at its best from April to early July.
The meadows come alive with wildflowers, including the delicate cowslips and cuckooflowers in early spring, followed by the stunning green-winged orchids.
Over 100 plant species have been recorded here.
Take a moment to pause and listen to the hum of insects on the breeze.
The old ridge-and-furrow patterns from centuries of ploughing are still visible, providing a fascinating glimpse into the past.
Now is the ideal time to get out and explore.
Whether you’re admiring the wildflowers at Iffley, listening out for curlews at Chimney Meadows or watching the birds at College Lake, there’s something for everyone.
These spots offer the perfect opportunity to enjoy the outdoors and witness the wonders of the changing season.
For more information, please visit bbowt.org.uk/reserves
