Important update on Rye Meads Nature Reserve
To ensure our longer-term sustainability, the RSPB has reviewed its operations across the UK so that everything we do aligns to our charitable and strategic aims and delivers the most impact for nature and wildlife possible.
Published: 15 Nov 2024
Updated: 12 May 2026
Topic: Rye Meads
The RSPB exists to deliver the greatest possible impact for nature. To ensure we can continue doing this sustainably, we reviewed our operations across the UK to focus our resources where they can achieve the most for wildlife.
We know that many people who enjoy visiting and supporting RSPB Rye Meads have been keen for an update on the reserve’s long-term future. Over the past 18 months we have explored a range of options for the site and have worked closely with our landlords, as well as other organisations, to consider the best way forward.
We can now confirm that the RSPB will be withdrawing from Rye Meads in November. At that time, management of the site will be handed back to the landowner. The reserve will be closed from Monday 2 November to allow transition to new management.
We will continue to work collaboratively with partners and the landowner to secure the best possible outcome for the future of the site and the wildlife that depends on it, and we will share further updates when we are able to.
We are extremely proud of everything that has been achieved at Rye Meads during our tenure, including the important conservation designations that will help protect the site and its wildlife for the long term.
Until our withdrawal in November 2026, Rye Meads will remain open and operating as normal, including throughout the coming summer and early autumn months. We encourage visitors to continue enjoying the reserve and to check our Facebook page or our web page for events and updates on the future of the site.
We would like to thank our dedicated staff and volunteers who have contributed so much to Rye Meads over the years, and the many visitors whose enthusiasm and support have helped make the reserve such a special place.
The RSPB remains committed to focusing its efforts where we can have the biggest impact for nature. We are proud of our work at Rye Meads and will continue working hard to ensure a smooth transition to its future management.
Thank you for your continued interest in and support for Rye Meads. We look forward to welcoming you to the reserve over the coming months.
If you have any questions, please email: rye.meads@rspb.org.uk