Print pageAbout Coombes Valley
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Image: The RSPB
This is a delightful oak woodland to walk through – 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
Free, but donations to help us continue our work here are welcome.
Information for families
Wildlife Explorer backpacks are available for use by children (when the site office is open).
Information for dog owners
No dogs allowed, except registered assistance dogs. There are two public footpaths which run through the reserve (they do not start from the information centre and are not ideal circular walks). We would encourage anyone on the public footpaths to keep their dogs on a lead.