RSPB Exe Estuary in Devon named one of the RSPB’s top sites to visit this autumn
The UK’s largest nature conservation charity, the RSPB, has revealed it’s “top ten spectacular autumn nature reserves” to visit this September, as people across the country look to escape the everyday with a staycation.
With over 200 nature reserves across the country, the charity are celebrating the wonderful autumn season by inviting people to spend time in nature – whether it’s a relaxing stroll through swaying reeds, a crunchy walk through fallen leaves and mystical woodland, or a peaceful sunset over a mosaic of habitats.
The outdoors, and the wildlife that calls it home, bought solace in much needed times during the Covid-19 crisis, with over half of people in the UK turning to and noticing the nature around them more during the pandemic, according to YouGov (1). Now, the charity hopes that this connection to nature can grow, with more people seeking time in nature to refresh, relax and look after their wellbeing.
Speaking of the charity’s shortlist of autumn nature reserves, the RSPB’s Becca Smith said: “Whether it’s close to home or further afield, making time to incorporate nature into your staycation this autumn can really help you to recharge your batteries.
A visit to one of our fantastic reserves can help you do just that. With plenty on offer from winding paths and family fun trails, to wildlife spectacles, vast landscape panoramas, cosy cafés, and shops packed with gifts and treats for any nature enthusiast, there is something for everyone to enjoy this September.”
Right here in Devon, RSPB Exe Estuary nature reserve has been crowned one of the RSPB’s best places to visit this autumn for its fantastic views both across the Exe Estuary itself, and for breath-taking sunsets across the River Clyst at nearby RSPB Darts Farm.
Making the top ten list alongside nature reserves from across the country, visitors can enjoy a stunning farmland walk around the Darts Farm trail where wading birds and migrant visitors gather to feed on the wetlands, or spot emblematic avocets from RSPB Bowling Green Marsh just a short walk away.
Why not make a day of it and discover all the RSPB has to offer right here in Devon? Friendly RSPB staff are on hand at RSPB Darts Farm shop to help you make the most of your visit – from local knowledge and wildlife watching tips to binocular guidance and a selection of gifts and snacks for any wildlife enthusiast.
Joining RSPB Exe Estuary were nine other RSPB reserves in the top ten spectacular autumn nature reserves list, including:
- RSPB Pulborough Brooks, Sussex
- RSPB Rainham Marshes, Essex
- RSPB Minsmere, Suffolk
- RSPB Strumpshaw Fen, Norfolk
- RSPB Sandwell Valley, West Midlands
- RSPB St Aidan’s Nature Park, West Yorkshire
- RSPB Salthome, North Yorkshire
- RSPB Burton Mere Wetlands, Cheshire
- RSPB Leighton Moss, Lancashire
To find your nearest RSPB nature reserve, or to explore what it has to offer from Marazion Marsh near Land’s End in Cornwall, to Fetlar in Shetland, visit rspb.org.uk/reserves
