Cotton Dell

A pretty reserve set within a secluded river valley, with flower rich grassland and ancient woodland. Plenty of nature for the kids to enjoy, from butterflies and bees, to bare ground and boggy bits!

Stroll along a magical stream and listen to the soothing sound of water as you look out for the many birds and wildflowers that can be found here.

Summer is the best time to see the grasslands, when they are full of butterflies, bees, and other insects, busy feeding on all the beautiful flowers. There are plenty of other sights and sounds for kids to enjoy throughout the year, but you may want to bring wellies as it can get pretty muddy amongst the boggy areas and ponds.

Get the kids to check the small boggy pools that you see along the way, as they are a great place to find a number of insects, look out for the Green Tiger beetle, which can be seen on sandy patches.

The surfaced track of the Circular Trail paths through the woodland is uneven and steep in places, so it may a bit challenging for the youngsters, and for pushchairs and wheelchairs.