Lower Moor

As some of the lockdown rules are easing, we are beginning to venture out and about. Most excursions are to outdoor places, such as the Cotswold Sculpture Park. Last week, we visited Lower Moor, one of the Wiltshire Wildlife Trust nature reserves. Located within a few miles of Swindon, it is an ideal spot for our young adventurer to explore.

Exploring

 

The site has ample parking space at the visitor centre. From the car park, it is a short walk to the replica Iron Age hut which is the focal point for many of the educational activities and a good starting point from which to investigate.

There is a stunning breadth of features across the reserve. Lakes, ponds, brooks, wetland areas, hedgerow, woodland, and meadows spread over 126 hectares. Hides around the lakes offer viewing opportunities for various birds, and – if you’re lucky – otters. We didn’t see the otters this time, but are quite certain that we viewed them last time we visited.

 

The footpaths meander through a beautifully diverse range of terrain. Some with wide views across the lakes, other paths shaded by woodland trees. Pause a while to hear the birds; a scolding wren, a blackbird’s song, and buzzards calling as they circle high above the canopy.

Our sightings this visit included baby frogs, clusters of cinnabar moth caterpillars, common terns, a grey heron, numerous butterflies, and a wide array of meadow flowers. It’s a beautiful reserve; somewhere which holds attraction throughout the seasons. Dogs are permitted providing they are on leads, and the area which we walked was very accessible.

Lower Moor is somewhere to absorb and observe nature. You will find tranquility here.