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.
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
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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.
For the on-the-go comforts that matter to you
- Restrooms
- Drink Options
- Food Options
- Seating Areas
- Information Boards
Getting There
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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.
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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.
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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.
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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
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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
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Windy Conditions
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.Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
Warkworth Hermitage
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A medieval chapel carved into riverside cliffs, accessible only by boat—where history and legend intertwine.
Search Northumberland, Things to do in Northumberland
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Hunkleton stone
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Morpeth Clock Tower
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Hole in The Wall
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Westmorland Way
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Explore Cramlington from Westmorland Way, your convenient bus stop for seamless access to local attractions and amenities.
Beadnell Harbour
26.6 km
Historic 18th-century harbour with unique west-facing entrance, scenic sandy bay, and preserved lime kilns on Northumberland’s coast.
Villages in Time Guided Walks no longer functions
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Explore the enchanting history of local villages with Villages in Time Guided Walks, where every step uncovers stories from the past.
Lozenge Type Coastal Bunker
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Lady's Well
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Discover Lady's Well, a tranquil ancient spring steeped in Roman history and early Christian legend, nestled within Northumberland’s wild beauty.
Collingwood Monument
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A commanding tribute to Admiral Collingwood overlooking the River Tyne, celebrating a naval hero’s legacy at the Battle of Trafalgar.
Jesmond Dene Mill
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Jesmond Dene Falls
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Experience the natural beauty of Jesmond Dene Falls, a captivating oasis in Newcastle upon Tyne, perfect for nature lovers and peaceful retreats.
Jesmond Dene
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Linhope Spout Waterfall
35.5 km
Discover the enchanting Linhope Spout Waterfall, a stunning natural attraction in Northumberland National Park, perfect for nature lovers and adventure seekers.
Unmissable attractions to see
Hauxley Nature Reserve
0.1 km
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Coquet Island
2.4 km
A vital seabird sanctuary off Northumberland’s coast, home to rare Roseate Terns, puffins, and a thriving seal colony.
Amble Beach Huts On Little Shore
2.7 km
Charming beach huts and a peaceful sandy shore combine with fresh seafood and coastal walks on Northumberland’s scenic Amble coast.
Druridge Bay Country Park
2.8 km
Explore Druridge Bay Country Park’s stunning lake, beach, and woodlands, rich in wildlife and history, perfect for family fun and outdoor adventures.
Sundial
2.8 km
Discover Amble’s iconic 7-metre Sundial—Europe’s largest gnomon—where precision meets coastal charm in a vibrant harbour town.
Amble Harbour Village
2.8 km
Discover Amble Harbour Village, a charming Northumberland coastal gem where fresh seafood, vibrant markets, and maritime heritage come alive.
Warkworth Beach
4.8 km
Discover the tranquil sands and scenic dunes of Warkworth Beach, a peaceful Northumberland coastal escape with free parking and natural beauty.
Warkworth Castle
4.9 km
Explore the majestic ruins and rich history of Warkworth Castle, a medieval fortress with stunning river and coastal views in Northumberland.
Northumberland coastal path
5.9 km
Explore 100 kilometers of stunning coastline, historic castles, and vibrant wildlife on the iconic Northumberland Coast Path.
Beaches
8.9 km
A serene sandy beach and charming coastal village in Northumberland, perfect for tranquil walks, wildlife, and rich maritime heritage.
Northumberland Zoo
10.2 km
Discover Northumberland Zoo’s family-run wildlife sanctuary with rare species, immersive keeper talks, and scenic rural charm near Morpeth.
Sugar Sands
13.8 km
Discover Sugar Sands, a tranquil Northumberland beach with Mediterranean charm, perfect for peaceful walks and nature lovers.
Woodhorn Museum
13.9 km
Explore Northumberland’s mining heritage and vibrant art scene at Woodhorn Museum, set in a historic colliery within QEII Country Park.
Barter Books
14.0 km
Discover a treasure trove of secondhand books and literary charm in a historic Victorian station at Barter Books, Alnwick.
The Alnwick Garden
14.1 km
Discover a visionary garden where water dances, poisonous plants tell stories, and nature blooms in Northumberland’s contemporary oasis.
Essential places to dine
The Old Storehouse
1.9 km
Cozy British dining and lively bar atmosphere in Amble’s charming coastal setting, offering hearty meals and warm local hospitality.
JASPERS BISTRO
2.7 km
A cozy seafood haven in Amble delivering exquisite, locally sourced dishes with personal service and refined charm.
The Fish Shack
2.8 km
Rustic seafood dining on Amble’s harbour, serving fresh local catch with stunning views and cozy charm.
Lilly’s Landing
2.8 km
Savor fresh seafood and stunning harbor views at Lilly’s Landing, Amble’s charming coastal restaurant with a warm, welcoming atmosphere.
The Old Boathouse
2.8 km
Fresh Northumberland seafood served with stunning coastal views in a charming maritime setting.
Bistro 23
8.9 km
Intimate family-run bistro in scenic Alnmouth serving fresh, local seafood and Northumberland specialties with warm hospitality.
The Whittling House
9.0 km
A cosy boutique hotel and acclaimed seafood restaurant in Alnmouth, blending rustic charm with coastal elegance and warm hospitality.
Restaurant Italia
9.0 km
Authentic Italian dining in the heart of Alnmouth’s charming seaside village, nestled within the welcoming Hope & Anchor Hotel.
The Hope & Anchor Hotel
9.0 km
Cozy coastal retreat with modern rooms, Italian dining, and warm hospitality in the heart of Alnmouth village.
The Cook & Barker Inn
11.4 km
A warm, stylish country pub near Morpeth, serving excellent food and offering comfortable rooms in the heart of Northumberland.
Dobson Restaurant
14.1 km
Experience refined British dining in a grand Georgian setting at Dobson Restaurant, Macdonald Linden Hall, nestled in scenic Northumberland.
The Treehouse Restaurant
14.2 km
Dine enchanted in the treetops of The Alnwick Garden, where local British flavors meet magical woodland charm and handcrafted rustic elegance.
Sonnet Restaurant
14.3 km
Experience a poetic 14-course tasting menu inspired by Shakespearean sonnets, blending local Northumberland flavors with refined culinary artistry.
Adam and Eve
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A stylish gastropub in Alnwick blending local seasonal produce with creative cocktails in a relaxed, welcoming setting.
The Market Tavern, Steakhouse and Lodge
14.5 km
A beloved steakhouse and lodge in Alnwick’s heart, offering hearty local fare and warm hospitality near historic landmarks.
Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
Raggy Dolls Limited
2.8 km
Discover unique ladies' fashion and personalized service at Raggy Dolls Limited, a beloved boutique in the heart of Amble.
Glamble Gifts & Accessories
2.8 km
Discover exquisite cosmetics and charming accessories in the scenic setting of Amble Harbour Village’s boutique gem.
A Touch of Love
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Discover unique gifts and heartfelt souvenirs at 'A Touch of Love' in Amble, a charming gift shop celebrating local craftsmanship.
Gray's Northumberland Ltd
5.1 km
A charming fashion accessories shop in the historic Northumberland village of Warkworth, perfect for scarves, jewellery, bags and thoughtful gifts.
Aln Gift Shop
8.8 km
Discover unique gifts and local charm at Aln Gift Shop, a cozy boutique nestled in the scenic village of Alnmouth, Northumberland.
Jane & Harry
9.0 km
Discover unique gifts and local charm at Jane & Harry, Alnmouth’s welcoming treasure trove on Northumberland Street.
Willowburn Retail Park
13.0 km
A convenient and diverse retail hub in Alnwick offering national brands and local specialties with ample parking and easy A1 access.
Notes of Northumberland
13.2 km
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Robinson's
14.4 km
A charming department and gift shop in Alnwick’s historic center offering quality apparel, home furnishings, and friendly service.
The Original Factory Shop (Alnwick)
14.6 km
Affordable brand-name fashion, footwear, and homeware bargains in the heart of Alnwick’s shopping district.
Sports Direct
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Marilyn & Melrose
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Ruby Tuesday Alnwick
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A World Of Difference
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Sanderson Arcade
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Essential bars & hidden hideouts
The Lounge Bar
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The Red Lion Inn
8.9 km
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The Sun Inn
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The Foxes Den
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The Northumberland Arms
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Crazy Horse Saloon n Grill
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Coast & Country
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Tanners Arms Alnwick
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The Queens Head
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Harry's Bar
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Black Swan Alnwick
14.7 km
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R. A. O. B Club
14.7 km
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White House Unique Social Club
14.8 km
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Anglers Arms
15.0 km
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The Granby Inn
15.1 km
A welcoming historic village inn in Northumberland offering cozy rooms, hearty food, and classic pub charm in a tranquil countryside setting.
Nightclubs & after hour spots
The Brick Club, Red Row Working Mens Club
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Dance Delicious
14.6 km
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Knightrider Discos
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World HQ
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Cosmic Ballroom
38.2 km
Newcastle's longest-running underground club: two floors of electronic beats, guest DJs, and non-stop dancing till dawn in an intimate Stowell Street hideaway.
Sinners
38.3 km
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Popworld - Newcastle
38.3 km
A neon-soaked pop party on Newcastle’s Bigg Market—cheap drinks, nostalgic anthems and a packed dancefloor for late-night revelry.
Greys Club
38.4 km
Experience Newcastle’s iconic nightlife at Greys Club, where vibrant music, a stylish terrace, and lively crowds create unforgettable late-night memories.
SOHO ROOMS | Newcastle
38.4 km
Four floors of late‑night music and cocktails in the heart of Newcastle’s city‑centre party district, favoured by students and night owls.
Flares - Newcastle
38.4 km
Newcastle's ultimate retro disco den: neon grooves, cheesy anthems, and non-stop dancing from 70s to 00s in the heart of the nightlife scene.
Loca Loca | Newcastle
38.5 km
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TROPICANA NEWCASTLE
38.5 km
Experience Newcastle’s vibrant nightlife at Tropicana, a lively nightclub blending cocktail sophistication with energetic club beats in the city’s heart.
Bohemia Newcastle
38.5 km
Neon-lit cocktail bar and compact club with graffiti murals, a mezzanine dance space and a sheltered courtyard terrace for late-night socialising.
The Social Club
38.5 km
Experience Newcastle’s vibrant nightlife at The Social Club, where music, cocktails, and dancing come alive until the early hours.
Tup Tup Palace
38.5 km
Experience Newcastle’s vibrant nightlife in style at Tup Tup Palace, a luxurious club blending exotic décor with pulsating beats until the early hours.
For the vibe & atmosphere seeker
- Relaxing
- Tranquil
- Scenic
- Fun-filled
- Unique
For the design and aesthetic lover
- Rustic Designs
- Eco-Friendly
For the architecture buff
- Modern
- Landmarks
- Parks & Gardens
For the view chaser and sunset hunter
- Iconic Views
- Panoramas
- Waterfront
- Sunrise Spots
- Sunset Spots
For the social media creator & influencer
- Instagrammable
- Photo Spots
- Selfie Spots
- Aesthetic Corners
For the eco-conscious traveler
- Sustainable
- Eco-Friendly
- Low Impact
- Protected Area
- Locally Managed
- Public-Transport Accessible
For the kind of experience you’re after
- Cultural Heritage
- Nature Escape
- Day Trip
- Family Friendly
- Photowalk
- Festival / Event Nearby
For how adventurous you want the journey to be
- Easy Access
Location Audience
- Family Friendly
- Senior Friendly
- Child Friendly
- Teen Friendly
- Wheelchair Access
- Solo Friendly
- Couple Friendly
- Vegetarian Friendly
- Vegan Friendly