© Tim Sexton
© John Smith
© John Smith
CAR PARK AND VISITOR CENTRE CLOSED
One of the largest sites for nature conservation in the East Midlands
Location
Know before you go
Entry fee
Free accessParking information
CAR PARK CURRENTLY CLOSED.Bicycle parking
YesWalking trails
There are 4 designated walking routes.
January 2020 update - The paths are very wet still so dress for the weather and wear wellies or waterproof boots. Please follow any warning signs on site.
Access
Access to the reserve is open daily 9-5pm. The cafe and shop in the centre is open from 10am to 4pm daily. There is disabled parking onsite and many of the trails around the reserve are suitable for pushchairs and wheelchairs. Contact the Trust for more information.
Dogs
Facilities
When to visit
Opening times
Summer = Open for walking from 9am to 7pmAutumn = Open for walking from 9am to 4pm
Winter = Open for walking from 9am to 5pm
Best time to visit
All year roundAbout the reserve
This reserve consists of a beautiful 450ha network of lakes, wetland, grassland and scrub. It is home to a diverse range of wildlife and is recognised as one of the richest birding sites in the region. Look out for birds such as gadwall and little grebe in winter and breeding wading birds including little ringed plover and redshank in spring and summer. The Idle Valley Rural Learning Centre is a high quality educational facility based at the south end of the site and is a venue for a range of training courses and events.