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Hauxley Wildlife Discovery Centre

Discover Northumberland’s eco-friendly wildlife sanctuary with accessible trails, diverse birdlife, and a welcoming café in a unique straw-bale centre.

4.7

Nestled on the Northumberland coast, Hauxley Wildlife Discovery Centre is a remarkable nature reserve featuring an eco-friendly straw-bale building, diverse habitats, and excellent wildlife watching opportunities. Visitors can explore accessible trails, multiple bird hides, and enjoy the Lookout Café, all while experiencing a vibrant sanctuary for birds, red squirrels, otters, and more.

A brief summary to Hauxley Wildlife Discovery Centre

  • Hauxley Ln, Northumberland, Low Hauxley, NE65 0JR, GB
  • +441912846884
  • Visit website
  • Duration: 1.5 to 3 hours
  • Budget
  • Environment icon Outdoor
  • Mobile reception: 4 out of 5
  • Monday 9 am-5 pm
  • Tuesday 9 am-5 pm
  • Wednesday 9 am-5 pm
  • Thursday 9 am-5 pm
  • Friday 9 am-5 pm
  • Saturday 9 am-5 pm
  • Sunday 9 am-5 pm

Local tips

  • Bring binoculars and sturdy footwear for the best wildlife viewing experience along the trails and hides.
  • Visit the Lookout Café for refreshments and pick up a rubbing disc trail booklet for a fun, interactive walk.
  • Note that dogs are not allowed on the reserve except for guide and assistance dogs to protect wildlife.
  • Plan for 2 to 3 hours to fully enjoy the circular walk, hides, and educational facilities.
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Getting There

  • Bus

    Take the Arriva North East bus service 418 or 419 from Morpeth or Alnwick to Amble; from Amble, a taxi or local shuttle service can reach Hauxley Wildlife Discovery Centre in approximately 10 minutes. Bus journeys take 40 to 60 minutes depending on origin. Bus fares range from £5 to £8 one-way.

  • Car

    Driving from nearby towns such as Alnwick or Morpeth takes about 20 to 30 minutes. A small car park is available on-site with a parking fee around £2 for all-day parking. Note that parking spaces are limited and the car park closes at 16:30.

  • Taxi

    Local taxi services from Amble or nearby towns provide a convenient option, typically taking 10 to 15 minutes with fares approximately £10 to £15, depending on distance and time of day.

  • Walking

    For those staying in Low Hauxley or nearby villages, walking to the centre is possible within 20 to 40 minutes over flat terrain with well-maintained paths, suitable for most fitness levels and accessible with some mobility aids.

Hauxley Wildlife Discovery Centre location weather suitability

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

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Discover more about Hauxley Wildlife Discovery Centre

A Sanctuary Born from Transformation

Hauxley Wildlife Discovery Centre is situated on land that was once part of the Radcliffe open-cast mine, purchased by the Northumberland Wildlife Trust in 1983. Over decades, this area has been transformed into a thriving haven for wildlife, showcasing the power of conservation and community effort. The centre itself is housed in an innovative eco-friendly straw-bale building, constructed largely by volunteers, reflecting a commitment to sustainability and environmental stewardship.

Diverse Habitats and Rich Wildlife

The reserve is a mosaic of habitats that attract an impressive variety of species. Birdwatchers can spot up to 140 species annually, including tree sparrows, reed buntings, bullfinches, coots, moorhens, and curlews. Beyond birds, the reserve is home to elusive red squirrels, stoats, and otters, offering a rare glimpse into the region’s rich biodiversity. Seasonal changes enhance wildlife sightings, with spring and autumn being particularly rewarding times to visit.

Engaging Trails and Observation Points

Visitors can enjoy a newly designed circular walk spanning approximately 2 kilometers, along with a fully accessible trail that leads to two accessible hides. In total, there are six bird hides, including a members-only hide, providing quiet vantage points to observe wildlife in their natural environment. The reserve also features a wildlife sightings board in the reception area, updated daily to share recent observations and encourage visitor participation.

Facilities Designed for Comfort and Learning

The Lookout Café offers a welcoming space to relax with refreshments while overlooking the reserve. Open daily from 10:00 to 16:00, it serves hot food until mid-afternoon. The centre provides essential amenities such as toilets, baby changing facilities, and disabled access paths covering nearly half the reserve. For families, there is a natural play area designed for children under ten, enhancing the reserve’s appeal as a family-friendly destination.

Community and Educational Engagement

Hauxley is more than a reserve; it is a hub for education and community involvement. The centre includes a classroom available for private hire, perfect for events, meetings, and educational visits. School groups can access an exclusive wildlife area linked to the classroom, fostering hands-on learning experiences. Regular wildlife talks, workshops, and family activities further enrich the visitor experience.

Commitment to Conservation and Visitor Experience

The centre operates with a strong ethos of protecting wildlife and minimizing human impact. Dogs are not permitted except for guide and assistance animals to avoid disturbing sensitive species. Donations are welcomed to support ongoing conservation efforts, as entrance to the reserve is free. The small car park charges a modest fee, with parking designed to accommodate visitors while preserving the natural setting. Hauxley Wildlife Discovery Centre stands as a testament to successful habitat restoration, community dedication, and sustainable tourism, offering visitors a peaceful yet engaging encounter with Northumberland’s natural heritage.

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