Derbyshire Wildlife Nature Reserve - Willington Wetlands

This former gravel pit in the Trent Valley is teeming with bird life all year round. The Reserve is particularly important for its wetland habitats, from open water to reed beds, while the shingle and grass islands provide a refuge for birds and are ideal for breeding waders.

From ducks in Winter to curlew in early Spring, and sand martins and common terns in Summer, Willington’s wetlands also attract several species of dragonfly and damselfly. Conditions suit water plants such as short-leaved water starwort. A family of otters have been seen from the viewing platforms, whilst beavers are to be introduced during 2021.

There are three viewing platforms, two of these have ramp access and one hide has ramp/bridge access. Access is currently limited to the lane and the viewing platforms provided. Meadow Lane is accessible to mobility scooters in dry conditions – please note that there are eight steps leading up to each of the viewing platforms

Limited parking is available onsite.

The Willington Wetlands are now home to a four and a half mile circular walk, that covers a section of the Wetlands and the towpath for the Trent and Mersey Canal offering a chance to see a multitude of unique species and habitats – more information and a route map can be found on our listing for the route here: Visit South Derbyshire – Willington Wetlands Circular

To find out more about the nature reserves managed by Derbyshire Wildlife Trust you can download their leaflet here: Derbyshire Wildlife Trust – leaflet