Overview

This Nature Reserve is well designed and has something for every one. It is run by Durham Wildlife Trust and covers about 12 hectares. There are reedbeds, grasslands and marsh areas and the river flows alongside it , with the chance of seeing a Kingfisher. The volunteers that run this reserve are very helpful and will advise you the best routes to take . Dogs are allowed, preferably on leads and there is a small car parking charge.

Transport & Parking

This venue is easy to access but there is no public transport directly to the site. We parked on the site and there is parking for disabled. There is a small charge for parking.

Access

I use a manual wheelchair and my wife has the task of pushing me around! I have to say that the main paths are well planned but the surface of all the paths varies as you go round the area. The reedbeds are very easy to find and are approached using a wooden platform but other paths vary immensely some being small shale and some easy well trodden paths . There are some seats along the paths but I had to give up on one area as the shale was too uncomfortable to enjoy the ride. However, I can imagine a large electric wheelchair with pneumatic tyres would manage very well. It is well signed and there are accessible hides to enjoy as well as a cafe and shop.

Toilets

There is 1 accessible loo which was well planned, spacious and very clean. There was a grab rail and space for a carer. No Changing Places Toilets.

Staff

The staff are mainly volunteers and are very pleasant and will advise you how to make the best of your visit.

Anything else you wish to tell us?

Covid precautions are 100%. The reception area is well screened and social distancing is practised in the shop. You can purchase take away teas, as the cafe is not open at the moment.