RSPB Coombes Valley reserve is a delightful oak woodland – especially in spring and early summer when lots of migrating birds come to breed at the reserve. Birds you may see on the steep valley sides include flycatchers, redstarts and wood warblers. There are a wide variety of butterflies to spot too.
In winter, redwings, fieldfares and winter finches are regular visitors. There's a fascinating nature trail here so the reserve is a good place for people of all ages to get closer to nature, although the footpaths are steep in places.
Opening times
Reserve open daily (except Christmas Day), 9 am to 9 pm or dusk (last entry two hours before closing); information centre open weekdays and weekends during busy periods, closes at 5 pm (closed Christmas Day). The public rights of way are open at all times.
Entrance charges
RSPB members free, £3 per car for non-members.
Information for families
A natural play trial including a canopy walkway, den building, fairy house village, mud kitchen and much more is available year round. Pond dipping equipment is available for hire at a cost of £2. Please refer to our events page for updates on our monthly events programme for families
Information for dog owners
No dogs allowed, except registered assistance dogs. Even dogs on leads can negatively impact wildlife, so generally dogs are not allowed on the reserve. However, they may go on the public footpaths, but not the paths which interlink these. Please keep dogs on a lead or under close control on the public footpaths. Registered assistance dogs may go on any of the trails.