Venue Description

Low Barns is a valuable wetland reserve and one of County Durham’s most important wildlife sites, located adjacent to the River Wear. The reserve has become important for wildlife due to the wide range of habitats including wet woodland, grassland, open water and river side, which are home to many different types of birds, mammals, plants and insects. However, Low Barns has not always been a haven for local wildlife. Originally farmland, the site underwent sand and gravel extraction until 1964 when the area was given to Durham Wildlife Trust and restored as a nature reserve. In 2003 a redundant sewage treatment works on the site was replaced with a new reedbed habitat and a boardwalk which enabled public access with minimal disturbance to wildlife.

Accessibility

Low Barns Visitor centre has level access with wide entrance doors. The centre is all on one level. There is a 1.2 mile looped walk through the nature reserve with seats at regular intervals.

Toilets

Accessible Toilets have step free access with wide doors, grab rails, an alarm and easy turn locks and taps.

Staff

Our staff are happy to be of assistance in any way possible. If you need any special assistance or guidance please ask at reception or approach a member of staff and they will be more than willing to help.