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Wooden boardwalk at Avalon Marshes

Safely enjoying our reserves

Helpful advice and guidance for an enjoyable and safe trip to the outdoors

We're proud that our nature reserves are inviting places for people who want to walk in nature. Through sensitive management and dedicated conservation work, they have become vital refuges and safe havens where wildlife has the space to live, feed and breed.

We want you to visit and enjoy our nature reserves, but it is also important that we are able to explain how you can also play a part in ensuring that these special places remain safe and secure for our wildlife - which is their primary purpose.  We support the Countryside Code in helping guide you through nature. Introduced in 1951 as an amendment in the National Parks and Access to the Countryside Act 1949, it was rebranded the Countryside Code in 2004. It is managed by both Natural England and Natural Resources Wales.

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Litter

Leave no trace of your visit

Remember to bring a bag with you and take your rubbish and food waste home, use public bins or recycle if possible.
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Care for Nature

Do not cause damage or disturbance

Leave rocks, stone, plants and trees as you find them and take care not to disturb wildlife including birds that nest on the ground.
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Dogs on reserves

Always keep dogs under control and in sight

Please keep your dog under effective control and always clean up your dog’s poo as it can cause illness in people, livestock and wildlife.
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Ash dieback

Be vigilant in windy weather

Stick to paths and trails, always follow any on-site signs and be aware that work may be being carried out in areas on our reserves.
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Be prepared

Plan your visit

Check the journey route, weather forecast and local facilities before you travel to make the most of your visit.
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safety

Follow the Countryside Code

Be aware of machinery in operation, grazing animals, muddy or uneven paths and any fallen tree branches. Stay safe on our reserves.

Know what to expect and what you can do

Please check details of the reserve you are planning to visit in advance, as access at different times of the year may vary due to weather conditions.  More information, such as finding downloadable route maps or guides, directions to accessible parking and gaining an understanding of areas where dog walking is or isn't permitted can be found on each reserve page. 

Explore our Nature Reserves

 

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Join over 22,000 members who have made supporting nature part of their everyday life.  Get involved in activities and events, visit wonderful nature reserves, and directly contribute to preserving Somerset’s natural spaces and safeguarding vulnerable wildlife across the county.

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