Avon Meadows
Avon Meadows boardwalk

Plan Your Visit

Everything you need to know before visiting Avon Meadows — from finding us to the wildlife you might spot.

How to Find Us

Country lane leading to Avon Meadows

Getting Here

Avon Meadows is located off the B4084 on the eastern edge of Pershore, Worcestershire, WR10 1NF. From Pershore town centre, follow signs toward the River Avon and look for the nature reserve signage. The reserve entrance is clearly marked with an information board.

Car park at the edge of the nature reserve

Parking

Free parking is available at the reserve car park. Additional parking is available at Pershore town centre car parks, a short 10-minute walk from the reserve entrance.

Accessible boardwalk path through the wetland

Access & Facilities

The reserve is freely accessible all year round, 365 days a year from dawn to dusk. Well-maintained paths and boardwalks are suitable for all abilities, including pushchairs and wheelchairs. There are interpretation boards throughout the site.

What You Can See

Kingfisher perched over the river

Birds

Over 150 bird species have been recorded at Avon Meadows. Regular residents include kingfishers, grey herons, great crested grebes, and barn owls. Winter brings lapwings, snipe, and teal, while summer visitors include reed warblers and sand martins.

Emperor dragonfly on a reed stem

Insects & Invertebrates

The wetland habitats support an exceptional range of dragonflies and damselflies. Over 20 species have been recorded, including the emperor dragonfly and banded demoiselle. The wildflower meadows attract numerous butterfly species, including the orange-tip and common blue.

Wildflower meadow with ragged robin and yellow iris

Plants & Habitats

The reserve encompasses wetland, meadow, woodland edge, and riverbank habitats. Seasonal wildflowers include ragged robin, meadowsweet, and yellow iris. The reed beds are managed to provide nesting habitat for specialist wetland birds.

What You Can Do

Couple walking along the boardwalk at dawn

Walking & Nature Trails

Follow the circular nature trail through diverse habitats. The main boardwalk offers elevated views across the reed beds and open water, while riverside paths follow the Avon through the meadows. The full circuit is approximately 2km.

Birdwatcher in a hide overlooking the lake

Birdwatching

Bring your binoculars and enjoy birdwatching from multiple viewing points around the reserve. The south-facing hide overlooks the main lake and is open daily. Dawn and dusk visits offer the best chances of spotting kingfishers and hunting barn owls.

Family on a guided nature walk in the meadow

Events & Activities

Friends of Avon Meadows organises guided walks, wildlife surveys, and community events throughout the year. Photography mornings, family nature days, and seasonal highlights events are held regularly. Follow us on Facebook for the latest event announcements.

Seasonal Highlights

Every season brings something special to Avon Meadows. Here's what to look out for month by month.

Birds
  • Wader passage begins — green sandpiper, common sandpiper
  • Young grey herons practising fishing
  • Swift numbers building before migration
Plants
  • Purple loosestrife flowering along the river bank
  • Willowherb in full bloom
Insects & Other
  • Brown hawker dragonfly patrolling
  • White-letter hairstreak butterfly in the willows