Durham Wildlife Trust protects some of the North East's most beautiful and biologically rich landscapes. From reed-edged ponds at Rainton Meadows to heather-clad slopes at Bishop Middleham Quarry, their sites provide havens for wildlife and peaceful retreats for visitors. Ideal for walkers, birders, photographers, and families, these sites showcase the region's natural heritage as well as supporting vital conservation work.

About Durham Wildlife Trust

Durham Wildlife Trust is one of the leading wildlife charities dedicated to protecting habitats in County Durham, Darlington, Gateshead, South Tyneside, and Sunderland. With responsibility for over 50 nature reserves, the Trust protects woodland, grassland, wetland, and coastal habitats.

Activities include:

• Habitat restoration: rewilding woodland, wetland creation, and wildflower meadows planting.

• Species conservation: conserving otters, dormice, orchids, butterflies, and native birds.

• Community engagement: volunteering, citizen science, educational events, and guided walks.

By going, donating time, or donating money, you make these wild spaces a refuge for wildlife and accessible to the public.

Nature Reserves You Need to Explore

Rainton Meadows

There is Rainton Meadows in Houghton-le-Spring, which is a wetland paradise with lakes, marshes, and meadows. There are herons, lapwings, and wild wintering fowl to spot for birdwatchers, as well as family-friendly level walking trails and pond-dipping. There are guided walks to unveil local plants and animals during seasonal periods.

Low Barns

Near Witton-le-Wear, there are riverside walks, woodland walks, and reedbed boardwalks at Low Barns. Kingfishers, otters, and migrant birds can be spotted. Guided walks, photography excursions, and pond-dipping excursions are on offer to cater to all ages.

Joe's Pond

This freshwater site at Fencehouses is ideal for birdwatching and nature study. There are short circular walks, amphibian surveys, and volunteer habitat days on offer for visitors.

Blackhall Rocks & Cross Gill

On the Durham Heritage Coast, this reserve combines geological interest with coastal wildflower meadows. Orchids and coastal birds during the summer are supplemented by rockpool safaris, beach cleans, and photography workshops contributing to visitor experiences.

Hawthorn Dene

Hawthorn Dene is a woodland valley stretching down to the coast, where mature trees, limestone meadows, and riverside walks provide a welcome escape. Bluebells, orchids, and varied birdlife ensure each visit is unique, while guided walks inform on fungi, nesting birds, and woodland ecology.

Bishop Middleham Quarry

A limestone grassland nature reserve containing butterflies and wild flowers. Paths can be walked along and skylarks, owls, and pollinators watched. Volunteer days and guided walks summarize approaches to grassland conservation.

Hannah's Meadow

Plant species rich and pollinator-rich flowers are present in this Upper Teesdale hay meadow. Riverbank walks can be enjoyed, and the fells surrounding can be explored. Guided insect survey or photographic walk can be attended.

Baal Hill

A 400-year-old oak in an ancient woodland near Wolsingham. Peaceful paths allow individuals to discover about woodland wildlife, birds, fungi, and wildflowers. Volunteers take part in woodland care and wildlife observation.

Raisby Hill Grassland

A secluded limestone grassland near Coxhoe, Raisby Hill features summer wildflowers and butterflies. Paths offer wide views of the countryside, and guided walks introduce visitors to grassland conservation.

Shibdon Pond and Meadow

One of Blaydon's top wetland reserves, this reserve offers a loop walk, bird hides, and plenty of wintering waterbirds. Activities include guided walks, pond surveys, and conservation volunteering.

Further Reserves to Visit

Other reserves to visit are:

• Addison & Hedgefield: Woodland, scrub, and grassland habitats.

• Lamesley Pastures: Unimproved river floodplain with wildflowers and birds.

• Edmondsley Wood: Ancient woodland with seasonal wildflowers.

• Chopwell Meadows & Cross Lane Meadows: Flower-rich grasslands with butterflies and ground-nesting birds.

These reserves offer seasonal walks, wildlife watching, fungi foraging, dawn chorus walks, and volunteer days, and thus are ideal for recreation and education.

Visit, Volunteer, and Support

Durham Wildlife Trust relies on visitors, volunteers, and members to maintain paths, mend habitats, and monitor wildlife. By visiting the reserves, you contribute towards safeguarding local environments and enjoying the natural beauty of the North East.

Whether you’re a family seeking a peaceful walk, a photographer capturing seasonal changes, or a birdwatcher tracking migratory species, Durham Wildlife Trust offers a nature reserve for everyone.