Wildfire risk
With wildfire risk currently extremely high, we urge visitors to take extra care by avoiding any activity that could start a fire and immediately reporting any signs of smoke or fire to 999 to help protect people and wildlife. Please note, some of our nature reserves are closed due to wildfires, please check before you travel.
Advice on wildfire preventionThu 30 July 2026 12:00 Days out
Cliffe Pools
CliffeOpenSee opening timesMarvel at the magnificent array of water birds that rest, breed and feed at Cliffe Pools, with a backdrop of lagoons, pools and the River Thames beyond.
About
The open horizons of Cliffe Pools provide a brilliant birdwatching backdrop. Look out across the pools, lagoons and the River Thames beyond as waders and wildlfowl make the most of the wetland landscape. Spring sees breeding Avocets and Common Terns enjoying the saltwater pools, while summer brings a mix of migrant birds to the reserve. Autumn marks the arrival of winter thrushes and wintering waders, as songbirds depart for sunnier shores. As for winter, it’s busy season as vast flocks of ducks, Dunlins and Lapwings gather.
We carefully manage the reserve to create the ideal conditions for wildlife to thrive. This includes filling in some areas of the lagoons and pools to make them shallower and better suited for feeding ducks and waders. Clearing scrub and cutting back plant growth where needed helps keep our water birds happy.
At a glance
The car park is open daily, 10am-4pm, except over the Christmas period when it is closed. 40 spaces Blue Badge bays. Secure parking. Some parking on the road - please do not block the access gates. No height restriction.
Nearest public conveniences are in the villages of Cliffe and Cooling around two miles away.
Nearest public conveniences are in the villages of Cliffe and Cooling around two miles away.
Pushchair Accessible
Pushchair Accessible
Wheelchair Accessible
Wheelchair Accessible
Nearest public conveniences are in the villages of Cliffe and Cooling around two miles away.
BBQs are a fire risk, endangering other people and the precious wildlife and habitats here. They are not permitted on the reserve at any time.
Dogs are permitted on Saxon Shoreway only.
We welcome responsible dog owners and note that you are sharing this nature reserve with very rare ground-nesting birds.
Dogs are permitted on all public footpaths but must be under close control and kept out of the pools at all times.
Sheep, cattle, and visiting families all appreciate the cooperation of dog walkers.
Please clear dog mess off the paths, preferably using the dog bins provided, or take it home for disposal.
Assistance dogs are welcome in all parts of the reserve.
See what’s here
Contact Cliffe Pools
northkentmarshes@rspb.org.uk RSPB Cliffe Pools, Salt Lane, Rochester, Kent, ME3 7SU 01634 222480