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Hauxley Nature Reserve and Wildlife Discovery Centre

Explore a vibrant coastal wildlife haven with accessible trails, eco-friendly facilities, and rich biodiversity at Hauxley Nature Reserve.

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Hauxley Nature Reserve, managed by the Northumberland Wildlife Trust, is a diverse wildlife haven on the Northumberland coast near Morpeth. Originally a former opencast mine, it now features wetlands, woodlands, and grasslands, attracting over 140 bird species annually as well as mammals like red squirrels and otters. The eco-friendly Wildlife Discovery Centre offers accessible trails, hides, a café, and a rich program of events, making it a top destination for nature lovers and families.

A brief summary to Hauxley Nature Reserve

  • Morpeth, GB
  • Visit website
  • Duration: 2 to 4 hours
  • Budget
  • Environment icon Outdoor
  • Mobile reception: 4 out of 5
  • Monday 10 am-5 pm
  • Tuesday 10 am-5 pm
  • Wednesday 10 am-5 pm
  • Thursday 10 am-5 pm
  • Friday 10 am-5 pm
  • Saturday 10 am-5 pm
  • Sunday 10 am-5 pm

Local tips

  • Parking is available on site for a £2 all-day charge; consider arriving early to secure a spot.
  • The reserve is dog-free except for guide and assistance dogs to protect wildlife.
  • Visit the Lookout Café for refreshments with scenic views across the lake and Druridge Bay.
  • Use the accessible trails and hides for the best wildlife viewing experience suitable for all abilities.
  • Check the reserve’s event calendar for seasonal activities like bird walks and family workshops.
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Getting There

  • Car

    Driving to Hauxley Nature Reserve from Morpeth takes approximately 20-30 minutes via the A1068. On-site parking is available for a £2 daily fee. The roads are well-maintained but parking spaces can fill on busy days, so early arrival is recommended.

  • Bus and Walking

    The nearest bus stop is in Amble, about 4 km from the reserve. From there, a 50-minute walk along local roads and footpaths leads to the reserve entrance. The walk is mostly flat but may be challenging for those with mobility issues.

  • Cycling

    Hauxley Nature Reserve is accessible via the National Cycle Network Route 1. Cycling from Amble or nearby villages offers a scenic and eco-friendly option, with bike parking available on site.

Hauxley Nature Reserve 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 Nature Reserve

Transformation from Mining to Wildlife Sanctuary

Hauxley Nature Reserve sits on land that was once part of the Radcliffe opencast coal mine. Purchased by the Northumberland Wildlife Trust in 1983, the site has been extensively restored and remodelled to create a mosaic of habitats including wetlands, woodlands, grasslands, and open water. This transformation has turned a former industrial landscape into a thriving sanctuary for wildlife, offering a striking example of successful ecological restoration.

Diverse Habitats and Wildlife

The reserve supports a remarkable variety of species, with around 140 bird species recorded annually. Visitors can spot waterfowl such as greylag and Canada geese, Eurasian coots, moorhens, and curlews, alongside woodland birds like tree sparrows, reed buntings, and bullfinches. Seasonal visitors include terns, with occasional sightings of roseate terns bathing in the freshwater lakes. Mammals such as red squirrels, otters, and roe deer also inhabit the reserve, adding to its biodiversity.

Facilities and Accessibility

At the heart of the reserve is the Hauxley Wildlife Discovery Centre, a remarkable eco-friendly building constructed largely from straw bales by dedicated volunteers. The centre includes a café with scenic views over the lake and Druridge Bay, restrooms, and a visitor reception area featuring wildlife sighting boards updated daily. The reserve offers a 2.5 km circular walk and a fully accessible trail leading to two hides, ensuring that visitors of all abilities can enjoy wildlife watching. There are six hides in total, including a members-only hide, providing excellent vantage points for observing birds and other animals.

Engaging Activities and Events

Hauxley hosts a packed calendar of events throughout the year, including bird walks, bat evenings, family activities during school holidays, and workshops. Educational programs and a classroom space are available for school groups and private hires. The reserve also offers a rubbing disc trail for children, encouraging interactive exploration of nature.

Setting and Surrounding Landscape

Located at the northern end of Druridge Bay, the reserve benefits from proximity to the beach and coastal landscapes. This setting enhances the visitor experience with panoramic views and opportunities to extend walks along the coast to nearby reserves such as Druridge Ponds and East Chevington. The natural play area near the centre caters to young children, making it a family-friendly destination.

Conservation and Community Involvement

Hauxley Nature Reserve exemplifies community-driven conservation, with volunteers playing a key role in building and maintaining the Discovery Centre and supporting reserve activities. The reserve’s management focuses on sustainable practices and habitat protection, contributing to the wider network of nature reserves managed by the Northumberland Wildlife Trust.

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