About the reserve

Lymington Reedbeds nature reserve is home to a range of fascinating species. Sea birds are abundant and warblers sing all through the year. Migratory birds return to the reedbeds time after time, and during the winter the reserve come to life with waders and water fowl. If you’re lucky, you may even spot an otter or a water vole.

Whether you’re a keen birder or simply looking to reconnect with nature, Lymington Reedbeds Nature Reserve is a wonderful place to visit.  

In the spring, vibrant marsh-marigold bring a welcome splash of colour to the reserve and the air is filled with the songs of sedge and reed warblers.

As autumn arrives, watch migrant birds such as yellow wagtail, swallow and martins build up their food stores and rest among the reeds before they depart for warmer climes.

Listen for the strange, pig-like squeals  of water rail in the winter and look  for snipe feeding within the shelter of  the reedbeds.

Special Features:

• Otter swim along the river here and you may find clues that one has been close by, such as spraint or footprints.
• In the more open areas of wet meadow, summer heralds the flowering of water mint, gipsywort and yellow loosestrife.Otter swim along the river here and you may find clues that one has been close by, such as spraint or footprints. In the more open areas of wet meadow, summer heralds the flowering of water mint, gipsywort and yellow loosestrife.