Swanwick Lakes is an almost entirely man-made landscape. This former clay extraction site is owned by NATS and managed for wildlife and education by the Wildlife Trust. The reserve extends to around 80 acres and is designated as a Site of Importance for Nature Conservation. This 86 acre site shows evidence of man’s influence. It was part of an area important for strawberry growing in the late 19th century, clay extraction between 1897 - 1974 resulting in numerous quarries, and now the whole area has ‘returned to nature’ with lakes, wooded hills and valleys and flower-filled meadows.
The reserve is located just off Swanwick Lane in Swanwick, about 2 miles from Bursledon and 7 miles from Fareham. We are easily accessible via the M27 from the surrounding urban areas of Southampton, Gosport and Portsmouth.
The Reserve is open from dawn to dusk every day with open access to the majority of the site. You will find a network of surfaced paths and 3 waymarked trails of varying lengths. The informal unsurfaced paths explore the woods and lakes and extend over the hill.
There are lots of ways that you can enjoy, be inspired by and help local wildlife. There are fun family activities, junior membership, activities for schools through to a wide range of events, volunteering opportunities and countryside courses for people of all ages. With over 400 events a year there is something to suit everyone's taste. Guided walks, family fun days, informative talks, wildlife crafts and more.
Map of Swanwick Lakes Nature Reserve
Last Updated on Thursday, 09 February 2012 11:48
