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Kingfishers Bridge Nature Reserve

A vibrant wetland haven in Cambridgeshire, rich in rare birds and wildlife, offering peaceful nature walks and immersive conservation experiences.

4.7

Kingfishers Bridge Nature Reserve is a 250-acre wetland sanctuary in Cambridgeshire, transformed from farmland since 1995. It hosts over 210 bird species, including rare breeders like the Bittern, alongside diverse flora and fauna. Visitors can explore open hides, wildlife viewing points, and permissive paths along the River Cam, with a visitor center offering information and occasional café services. The reserve balances public access with conservation, especially during breeding seasons.

A brief summary to Kingfishers Bridge Nature Reserve

  • Wardens Office, 36A Stretham Rd, Ely, Wicken, CB7 5XL, GB
  • +447842782177
  • Visit website
  • Duration: 1 to 3 hours
  • Budget
  • Environment icon Outdoor
  • Mobile reception: 4 out of 5
  • Monday 7 am-10 pm
  • Tuesday 7 am-10 pm
  • Wednesday 7 am-10 pm
  • Thursday 7 am-10 pm
  • Friday 7 am-10 pm
  • Saturday 7 am-10 pm
  • Sunday 7 am-10 pm

Local tips

  • Visit on weekends to enjoy the pop-up Wren Café offering homemade cakes and drinks in the garden.
  • Bring binoculars for excellent birdwatching from the reserve’s open hides and viewing points.
  • Check the reserve’s website for closures on specific Tuesdays in November, December, and January.
  • Join guided walks to access restricted areas and gain expert insights into the reserve’s wildlife.
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Getting There

  • Public Transport

    From Cambridge city center, take the bus service 13 towards Ely; the journey takes approximately 45 to 60 minutes. From the nearest stop, a 20-minute walk over flat terrain leads to the reserve entrance. Bus tickets cost around £5 one way.

  • Car

    Driving from Ely, the reserve is about 15 minutes via local roads. On-site parking is available with a suggested donation of £5 per day. Note that parking may be limited during special events.

  • Cycling

    Cyclists can reach Kingfishers Bridge via quiet country lanes from Ely or Cambridge, with an estimated travel time of 1 to 1.5 hours depending on starting point. Bike parking is available near the Visitor Centre.

Kingfishers Bridge Nature Reserve location weather suitability

  • Weather icon Any Weather
  • Weather icon Rain / Wet Weather
  • Weather icon Clear Skies
  • Weather icon Mild Temperatures

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Discover more about Kingfishers Bridge Nature Reserve

A Living Wetland Sanctuary in Cambridgeshire

Since its establishment in 1995, Kingfishers Bridge Nature Reserve has transformed 250 acres of former farmland into a thriving wetland ecosystem. Situated on the banks of the River Cam near Ely, this reserve is a vital refuge for endangered species of the Fens and a showcase of pioneering conservation techniques. The variety of habitats created here, from reed beds to open water and wet grasslands, supports an astonishing biodiversity that continues to grow.

Richness of Birdlife and Wildlife

The reserve is renowned for its remarkable bird population, having recorded over 210 species, with more than 90 known to have bred on site. Among these is the elusive Bittern, which successfully bred here for the first time in Cambridgeshire since 1938, marking a significant conservation milestone. Beyond birds, the reserve is home to over 500 plant species and a diverse array of butterflies, moths, and other invertebrates, all flourishing in the carefully managed habitats.

Visitor Experience and Facilities

Visitors are welcomed year-round during daylight hours to explore the reserve’s network of permissive paths, open hides, and wildlife viewing points. The Fen Rivers Way trail runs along the River Cam, offering scenic walks and opportunities to connect with nature. The Visitor Centre provides updated bird sighting lists, maps, and details on ongoing conservation projects. On weekends throughout most of the year, the pop-up Wren Café offers hot and cold drinks and homemade cakes in the garden, enhancing the visitor experience.

Conservation and Community Involvement

Kingfishers Bridge operates as a ‘wildlife first’ project, prioritizing habitat protection and species welfare. Access is carefully controlled during the summer breeding season to minimize disturbance. The reserve is managed by a dedicated team of wardens and supported by volunteers and the Kingfishers Bridge Wetland Creation Trust, a registered charity. An advisory group regularly guides conservation strategy and ensures the site’s ecological integrity.

Seasonal Access and Events

While generally open daily from dawn to dusk, the reserve closes on specific Tuesdays in November, December, and January for management work. Special guided walks and tours provide access to normally restricted areas, offering deeper insights into the reserve’s habitats and wildlife. Annual events, including family open weekends, celebrate the reserve’s milestones and foster community engagement.

Natural Beauty and Serenity

The landscape of Kingfishers Bridge offers a tranquil escape into nature, with varied wetland vistas, peaceful waterscapes, and the gentle sounds of wildlife. It invites visitors to refresh their minds and renew their connection with the natural world, making it a cherished destination for birdwatchers, nature lovers, and those seeking quiet contemplation.

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