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Description
Idle Valley nature reserve is situated along the western bank of the River Idle and east of the villages of Sutton cum Lound and Lound, located just five minutes away from Retford and within an hour of Nottingham, Lincoln, Doncaster, Sheffield and Newark. This nature reserve is one of the largest in the East Midlands and has something for everyone. The lakes within the nature reserve have been formed over seventy years of extraction of gravel and other aggregates. Whether you’re planning a gentle stroll with the family, enjoying the treehouse play area, having a spot of lunch in a tranquil setting or are looking for somewhere to spend a whole day wildlife watching, Idle Valley Nature Reserve is the place to head.
Idle Valley is one of the richest birding sites in the region. The site contains a rich number of breeding wetland birds and a nationally important population of wintering Gargönd, one of 17 species of wildfowl that can be regularly found at the site each year. Key breeding species include Skeiðönd, Toppgoði and Skúfönd along with locally scarce breeding species such as Rauðhöfðaönd and Skutulönd. A number of breeding waders are also present, such as Vepja, Tjaldur, Vatnalóa and Stelkur and species to look out for in winter include Dverggoði. The reserve is designated as a Site of Special Scientific Interest (SSSI) due to its importance for wild birds, and is one of the largest nature conservation sites in the county. With the River Idle forming a natural boundary, the reserve is a valuable, nationally recognised wildlife haven and a key destination for migratory birds.
Details
Access
Idle Valley Nature Reserve is next to the A638 road and buses stop outside the reserve. Multiple public rights-of-way cross the reserve, including one around the majority of Bellmoor Lake. The reserve is open all year, and access is free, although visitors are asked to donate for using the car park. The main part of the reserve is accessed from the visitor centre. The northern end of the reserve can be accessed by walking from the visitor centre, although it is also accessible via Lound village. Access to the reserve is open daily 9-5pm. The visitor centre shop and cafe is open for snacks and drinks. Toilets are available. There is disabled parking onsite and many of the trails around the reserve are suitable for pushchairs and wheelchairs. Contact the Trust for more information. On the map you see a circular walk of about 13 km, but there are also other and shorter trails to choose from.