Snipe Dales Country Park and Nature Reserve
Explore the tranquil wet valleys and woodlands of Snipe Dales, a serene nature reserve with scenic trails and abundant wildlife in Lincolnshire.
Snipe Dales is a scenic nature reserve and country park located near Spilsby in Lincolnshire, England. Spanning 87 hectares, it features steep-sided wet valleys carved by streams, mixed woodlands, grasslands, and diverse wildlife habitats. The reserve offers peaceful walking trails with views of the southern Lincolnshire Wolds, making it a tranquil escape for nature lovers and hikers alike.
A brief summary to Snipe Dales
- B1195, Spilsby, GB
- +441507588401
- Visit website
- Duration: 1 to 4 hours
- Budget
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Outdoor
- Mobile reception: 4 out of 5
- Monday 8:30 am-4:30 pm
- Tuesday 8:30 am-4:30 pm
- Wednesday 8:30 am-4:30 pm
- Thursday 8:30 am-4:30 pm
- Friday 8:30 am-4:30 pm
- Saturday 8:30 am-4:30 pm
- Sunday 8:30 am-4:30 pm
Local tips
- Bring cash for the £1 parking fee as card payments are not accepted.
- Visit between April and July for the best wildlife viewing and bird song.
- Dogs are allowed in the country park but must be kept on leads on some trails to protect wildlife.
- Wear sturdy footwear suitable for uneven terrain, especially in wet conditions.
For the on-the-go comforts that matter to you
- Restrooms
- Picnic Areas
- Trash Bins
- Information Boards
- Seating Areas
Getting There
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Bus
Take the bus service from Spilsby town center to the B1195 near Snipe Dales; the journey takes approximately 20-30 minutes. Services run several times daily but check schedules in advance. Walking from the bus stop to the reserve entrance is about 1.5 km on rural roads.
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Car
Driving from Spilsby, the reserve is about a 10-minute drive along the B1195. Parking is available at the country park for a £1 fee payable in cash. The car park barrier is open from 8:30 am to 5 pm.
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Walking
For those staying nearby, walking trails connect from Lusby village to Snipe Dales. Expect a 30-45 minute walk over varied terrain, including some steep sections, suitable for moderately fit walkers.
Snipe Dales location weather suitability
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Any Weather
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Rain / Wet Weather
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Clear Skies
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Mild Temperatures
Discover more about Snipe Dales
Landscape Sculpted by Water and Time
Snipe Dales is distinguished by its dramatic wet valley system, one of the few remaining semi-natural examples in Lincolnshire. Over millennia, streams have carved steep-sided valleys through sandstone and Kimmeridge Clay, creating a varied terrain of dales and ridges. This geological formation supports a mosaic of habitats, from damp grasslands to scrub and mixed woodlands, offering a rich tapestry of natural beauty.Flora and Fauna in Abundance
The reserve's diverse habitats nurture a wide array of wildlife. In spring and summer, the valleys resonate with the songs of migrating warblers and breeding birds, while autumn and winter bring treecreepers, goldcrests, siskins, and bramblings foraging among the woodlands. The mixture of wet valleys and woodland provides ideal conditions for various plant species, contributing to the ecological significance of the area.Walking Trails Through Nature’s Quietude
Visitors can explore well-marked trails that meander through the country park and nature reserve. The walks vary in length and difficulty, suitable for leisurely ambling or more energetic hikes. The paths offer peaceful encounters with nature, punctuated by scenic views of the Lincolnshire Wolds and opportunities to spot local wildlife. Dogs are welcome in the country park area, though some routes have restrictions to protect sensitive habitats.Seasonal Highlights and Visitor Experience
Snipe Dales is accessible year-round, with the best times to visit from April to July when birdlife is most active and flowers bloom abundantly. The car park operates daily from 8:30 am to 4:30 pm. Facilities include picnic areas and restrooms, enhancing visitor comfort. The tranquil atmosphere makes it ideal for mindfulness, nature photography, and family outings.Conservation and Community Engagement
Managed by the Lincolnshire Wildlife Trust, Snipe Dales is a protected area emphasizing conservation and education. Efforts focus on maintaining the delicate balance of the wet valley ecosystem and promoting sustainable visitor access. The reserve serves as a vital wildlife habitat and a place for the public to connect with Lincolnshire’s natural heritage.Views Beyond the Valleys
From various vantage points within the park, visitors can enjoy panoramic views of the southern Lincolnshire Wolds, a landscape that defies the flat stereotype of the county. These vistas add a scenic dimension to the experience, linking the intimate valley environment with the wider countryside.Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
Tupholme Abbey
18.8 km
Medieval monastery transformed: where Premonstratensian canons once prayed, Tudor mansions rose and farmland endured.
Castle Ruins Skegness
24.1 km
Discover the tranquil medieval castle ruins in Skegness, a free and timeless glimpse into Lincolnshire’s rich history.
Lincolnshire Road Victims Memorial
26.1 km
A solemn memorial in Wyberton honoring lives lost on Lincolnshire’s roads, set within peaceful Sir Joseph Banks Country Park.
International Bomber Command Centre
34.9 km
Explore the International Bomber Command Centre in Lincoln, a profound memorial and museum dedicated to the bravery of WWII aircrew and their legacy.
Sleaford Castle
34.9 km
Explore the evocative ruins of Sleaford Castle, a medieval fortress steeped in centuries of ecclesiastical history and local heritage.
Pottergate Arch
35.3 km
Step through Pottergate Arch, Lincoln’s medieval gateway guarding the sacred Cathedral Close since the 13th century.
Priory Arch
35.4 km
A majestic Victorian Gothic arch marking the historic entrance to Lincoln’s cathedral quarter and the ancient Bailgate street.
North Tower of the East Gate of the Wall of Roman Lindum Colonia (Lincoln)
35.5 km
Explore the impressive Roman North Tower of the East Gate, a gateway to Lincoln’s ancient Lindum Colonia and a testament to Roman urban grandeur.
Lincoln Cathedral
35.5 km
Discover Lincoln Cathedral, a stunning Gothic masterpiece steeped in history, art, and architectural brilliance, located in the heart of Lincoln, England.
Lincoln Medieval Bishops' Palace
35.5 km
Immerse yourself in the medieval history of England at Lincoln Medieval Bishops' Palace, a stunning heritage site brimming with stories and architectural beauty.
Lincoln Museum
35.6 km
Explore the life and legacy of Abraham Lincoln through immersive exhibits, rare artifacts, and interactive storytelling in Springfield, Illinois.
Exchequer Gate
35.7 km
Step through Exchequer Gate, a majestic 14th-century medieval archway guarding Lincoln’s historic heart between Castle and Cathedral.
Medieval Norman House
35.7 km
Discover the Medieval Norman House in Lincoln, a historical landmark that showcases the city's rich heritage and stunning Norman architecture.
Lincoln Guildhall
35.7 km
Explore the historic Lincoln Guildhall, a magnificent architectural gem showcasing centuries of rich heritage and captivating stories in the heart of Lincoln.
Lincoln War Memorial
35.8 km
A timeless symbol of unity and freedom, the Lincoln Memorial stands proudly at the heart of Washington, D.C.'s National Mall.
Unmissable attractions to see
English Heritage - Bolingbroke Castle
3.5 km
Explore the evocative ruins and royal heritage of Bolingbroke Castle, birthplace of King Henry IV, nestled in tranquil Lincolnshire countryside.
Lincolnshire Aviation Heritage Centre
5.9 km
Step back in time at Lincolnshire Aviation Heritage Centre, a living memorial to WWII Bomber Command with rare aircraft and immersive wartime exhibits.
Wolds Wildlife Park
7.4 km
Discover Lincolnshire’s intimate wildlife sanctuary with lions, tigers, and more in a family-friendly, scenic park setting.
ARK Wildlife & Dinosaur Park Stickney
10.6 km
Discover rescued exotic animals and Lincolnshire’s largest dinosaur park in a family-friendly sanctuary blending wildlife care with prehistoric adventure.
Bainland Lodge Retreats
12.5 km
Luxury lakeside lodges in tranquil Woodhall Spa with private hot tubs, family-friendly amenities, and dog-friendly escapes in 45 acres of natural beauty.
Ostler's Plantation
12.8 km
Discover Ostler's Plantation: a serene woodland rich with towering trees, wildlife, and echoes of WWII history near Woodhall Spa.
National Trust - Gunby Estate, Hall and Gardens
13.5 km
Discover Gunby Estate’s charming 18th-century hall and vibrant Victorian gardens nestled in the peaceful Lincolnshire Wolds countryside.
Woodhall Spa Cottage Museum
14.3 km
Discover the charming history and heritage of Woodhall Spa in this intimate cottage museum filled with local stories and artifacts.
Alford Manor House
14.5 km
Discover the Tudor charm and peaceful gardens of Alford Manor House, a heritage gem in Lincolnshire with a welcoming tea room and vibrant community events.
Dambusters Memorial
14.8 km
A solemn and striking memorial in Woodhall Spa honoring the bravery and sacrifice of the legendary Dambusters of No. 617 Squadron.
The Alford Windmill Trust
15.0 km
Explore the historic seven-storey, five-sail Alford Windmill, a Grade I listed landmark preserving Lincolnshire’s rich milling heritage.
Kirkstead Abbey
15.7 km
Explore the evocative ruins of Kirkstead Abbey, a 12th-century Cistercian monastery steeped in medieval history and tranquil Lincolnshire countryside.
Battle Of Britain Memorial Flight Visitors Centre
15.7 km
Explore iconic WWII aircraft and honor RAF heroes at the living memorial of the Battle of Britain Memorial Flight in Lincolnshire.
National Trust - Tattershall Castle
16.1 km
Explore Tattershall Castle’s towering medieval brick Great Tower and tranquil moated grounds, a stunning symbol of power and heritage in Lincolnshire.
English Heritage - Sibsey Trader Windmill
17.1 km
Experience the timeless charm of Sibsey Trader Windmill, a beautifully preserved 19th-century tower mill set in the heart of Lincolnshire’s fenlands.
Essential places to dine
The Red Lion Inn
7.8 km
Experience authentic English countryside charm and comfort at The Red Lion Inn in Partney, where tradition meets warm hospitality.
The Leagate Inn
13.1 km
A cozy Lincolnshire pub with inviting rooms, excellent food, and a relaxing beer garden in the heart of Coningsby village.
The Petwood Hotel
14.6 km
Historic charm meets tranquil gardens and refined comfort at The Petwood Hotel, Woodhall Spa’s iconic country retreat.
The Splash Pub
16.2 km
Historic 17th-century country pub with cosy charm, scenic gardens by a ford, traditional ales, and welcoming bed and breakfast near Louth.
Woolpack Inn
19.9 km
Discover the heart of Louth at Woolpack Inn - where great food meets friendly faces in a cozy English pub atmosphere.
Poppy's Restaurant
20.6 km
A welcoming British restaurant in Skegness offering hearty breakfasts, classic lunches, and great value in a bright, family-friendly setting.
The Welcome Inn
22.2 km
A lively family-friendly pub in Skegness offering hearty home-cooked meals, spacious outdoor seating, and a welcoming atmosphere for all ages.
Arnolds Diner
23.0 km
Classic British breakfast served fresh and hearty in a friendly, casual diner setting on Heath Road, Skegness.
Aroma Italian restaurant
23.5 km
Experience authentic Italian cuisine with generous portions and warm hospitality in the cozy, rustic charm of Aroma Italian Restaurant in Skegness.
The Olive
23.6 km
Cozy Italian and Mediterranean dining with authentic flavors and warm hospitality on Skegness’s Roman Bank.
San Rufo’s Italian Restaurant
23.6 km
Authentic Italian dining with generous portions and warm family hospitality in the heart of Skegness.
Lusso by lanzetta
23.6 km
Experience authentic Italian flavors and warm hospitality in the heart of Skegness at Lusso by Lanzetta.
No9
23.7 km
A welcoming fusion of Greek and British flavors in Skegness, offering fresh dishes and friendly service in a relaxed, contemporary setting.
Steak N Stuff
23.8 km
Savor perfectly cooked, juicy steaks with generous portions and homemade sauces in a friendly, casual Skegness steakhouse.
Coast Restaurant
23.9 km
Casual coastal dining with friendly service at Butlin's Skegness Resort, perfect for families and holidaymakers seeking relaxed meals.
Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
Grace's Boutique
7.5 km
A charming boutique in Horncastle offering unique fashion, accessories, and gifts with warm, personalized service in a historic market town setting.
WonderlandCreations
22.8 km
Explore WonderlandCreations in Skegness for unique fashion accessories that capture the spirit of your visit.
Yoosh
22.8 km
Explore the charm of Skegness at Yoosh, where unique gifts and local crafts create lasting memories.
Fiesta Gifts
23.5 km
Discover unique vintage finds and quirky gifts at Fiesta Gifts, Skegness’s charming boutique for retro dresses and nostalgic treasures.
2 WILD RETRO
23.5 km
Discover authentic vintage treasures and sustainable retro fashion in the heart of Skegness.
Alisons
23.5 km
Discover diverse fashion and friendly service at Alisons, Skegness’s welcoming clothing shop on Lumley Road.
Mace Store
23.5 km
Discover convenience at Mace Store in Skegness, where local flavors and essential supplies meet for every tourist's needs.
Family Shopper
23.5 km
Discover Family Shopper in Skegness for all your convenience needs, from snacks to essentials, open daily for your shopping ease.
IF-ITS
23.6 km
Discover unique vintage treasures and nostalgic collectibles in the heart of Skegness at IF-ITS, open daily for curious visitors and collectors alike.
Treat yourself shopping kingdom
23.6 km
Explore the Shopping Kingdom in Skegness, where unique finds and local treasures await every tourist.
The Wardrobe
23.6 km
A stylish clothing boutique on Skegness High Street, offering contemporary fashion and accessories in a relaxed seaside setting.
The Edinburgh Woollen Mill
23.7 km
Discover timeless British knitwear and classic clothing styles at The Edinburgh Woollen Mill, Skegness' premier heritage clothing shop.
Name Factory
23.7 km
Skegness’s trusted boutique for over 30 years, crafting personalized gifts with quality vinyl and expert printing on High Street.
Gold ‘N’ Gifts
23.7 km
Discover unique jewellery and memorable gifts in the heart of Skegness at Gold ‘N’ Gifts, your charming local treasure trove.
Oliver Twist
23.7 km
Discover unique, stylish fashion accessories at Oliver Twist, a charming boutique in Skegness’s vibrant High Street.
Essential bars & hidden hideouts
The Tattershall Park Country Pub and Kitchen
17.0 km
A contemporary country pub with unique themed interiors, fresh pub classics, and a welcoming garden terrace in historic Tattershall.
Show Bar
21.4 km
Lively entertainment hub within Skegness Holiday Park offering live shows, karaoke, and family-friendly fun near the Lincolnshire coast.
Finnigans Bar
21.9 km
A lively seaside bar in Skegness offering friendly vibes, regular events, and a perfect spot to unwind near the coast.
Jack Snipe
22.6 km
A welcoming British pub in Skegness offering traditional fare, lively entertainment, and a friendly community atmosphere with a dog-friendly beer garden.
White Horse
23.1 km
A cosy, community-driven pub in Skegness offering hearty meals, lively sports, and a dog-friendly atmosphere all day long.
The Lumley
23.5 km
A historic Skegness pub blending classic charm with modern comfort and locally sourced fare in a welcoming atmosphere.
The Red Lion - JD Wetherspoon
23.5 km
Historic charm meets classic British pub fare in the heart of Skegness at The Red Lion - JD Wetherspoon.
Olivia's
23.5 km
Olivia's Cocktail Bar in Skegness offers expertly crafted cocktails and a lively yet cozy atmosphere, perfect for socializing any day of the week.
The Ship & Atlantic Bar
23.6 km
A vibrant, art deco pub in Skegness offering hearty food, lively entertainment, and a welcoming atmosphere by the seaside.
Garden City Pub
23.7 km
A lively and welcoming pub on Roman Bank offering local ales, live entertainment, and a friendly atmosphere in the heart of Skegness.
Churchill's
23.8 km
A unique British pub in Skegness featuring aircraft seating, lively sports viewing, and classic pub fare in a welcoming atmosphere.
The Seathorne Arms
23.8 km
A welcoming Skegness pub offering hearty food, well-kept ales, and a friendly, accessible atmosphere for all visitors.
BAR 1-2-8
24.0 km
Experience Skegness nightlife at BAR 1-2-8, a lively bar with great drinks, live entertainment, and a welcoming atmosphere in the town center.
The Stumble Inn Skegness
24.0 km
A lively and friendly seaside pub in Skegness known for live music, casual dining, and a welcoming local atmosphere.
Marine Boat House Bar
24.0 km
A lively traditional pub in Skegness serving hearty British carvery and classic seaside dishes in a casual, family-friendly atmosphere.
Nightclubs & after hour spots
Charlie's Nightclub
14.9 km
Experience Coningsby's vibrant nightlife at Charlie's Nightclub, where lively music and a welcoming atmosphere create unforgettable evenings.
Club Angel
24.0 km
Experience stylish nightlife and vibrant weekend parties at Club Angel, Boston’s elegant hotspot for late-night entertainment.
Kush Nightclub
24.0 km
Experience Skegness’ premier nightclub with luxury vibes, cutting-edge sound, and a vibrant dance floor at Kush within The Hive complex.
Void Nightclub
35.6 km
Lincoln’s stylish hotspot for electronic dance music, vibrant nights, and unforgettable clubbing experiences.
Atmosphere
35.7 km
Discover the vibrant nightlife of Lincoln at Atmosphere Karaoke Bar, where every night is a celebration of music and fun.
Popworld - Lincoln
35.7 km
Popworld Lincoln: Where cheesy pop hits and vibrant nightlife create unforgettable party nights on High Street.
Club Desire
35.8 km
Experience Lincoln’s vibrant nightlife at Club Desire, where luxury meets affordability in a lively, welcoming gentlemen’s club setting.
Sugarcubes Nightclub
35.8 km
Energetic and affordable nightlife in Lincoln with a unique cube-themed vibe and friendly atmosphere.
The Scene
36.0 km
Lincoln’s vibrant two-floor nightclub and LGBTQ+ venue, open nightly with diverse events and a welcoming atmosphere.
Lincoln Rock N Roll Club
37.0 km
A vibrant rock and roll nightspot in Waddington offering affordable drinks, energetic dancing, and a welcoming community atmosphere.
Spiders
65.7 km
Hull’s legendary alternative nightclub with decades of goth, punk, and rock heritage, vibrant atmosphere, and welcoming community spirit.
The Welly
66.3 km
Hull’s iconic alternative nightclub with over a century of live music, club nights, and a legendary atmosphere on Beverley Road.
Angels Peterborough
70.4 km
Experience lively nightlife and captivating stage performances at Angels Peterborough, the city’s vibrant nightclub and bar on Brook Street.
The Met Lounge
71.0 km
Peterborough’s vibrant live music venue and nightclub blending nostalgic charm with lively club nights and diverse musical acts.
Tubes
75.6 km
Energetic nightlife and affordable drinks come alive at Tubes, Melton Mowbray’s go-to nightclub and bar for fun and dancing.
For the vibe & atmosphere seeker
- Relaxing
- Tranquil
- Scenic
- Fun-filled
For the design and aesthetic lover
- Rustic Designs
- Colorful Aesthetics
For the architecture buff
- Parks & Gardens
- Heritage Neighborhoods
For the view chaser and sunset hunter
- Panoramas
- Iconic Views
For the social media creator & influencer
- Instagrammable
- Photo Spots
- Selfie Spots
For the eco-conscious traveler
- Protected Area
- Nature Reserve
- Public-Transport Accessible
- Locally Managed
- Leave-No-Trace Critical
For the kind of experience you’re after
- Nature Escape
- Day Trip
- Weekend Getaway
- Cultural Heritage
- Photowalk
- Mindfulness
For how adventurous you want the journey to be
- Easy Access
Location Audience
- Family Friendly
- Senior Friendly
- Child Friendly
- Teen Friendly
- Pet Friendly
- Solo Friendly
- Couple Friendly
- Vegetarian Friendly
- Vegan Friendly