Blashford Lakes Nature Reserve
A serene nature reserve in former gravel pits, teeming with diverse birdlife and offering accessible paths for all.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Breeding season activity
Blashford Lakes Nature Reserve
Best Time
Breeding season activity
Highlights
Must-see attractions
A serene nature reserve in former gravel pits, teeming with diverse birdlife and offering accessible paths for all.
"Such a beautiful and peaceful place to spend sometime in."
Bring Binoculars! :binoculars:
Essential for spotting distant birds and wildlife. You won't regret it!
Check Wildlife Sightings :magnifying_glass:
Local groups often share recent sightings online, helping you plan your visit.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Kingfisher Spotting
Bird hides
Catch a glimpse of the iridescent flash of a kingfisher in its natural habitat. Patience is key!
Sand Martin Activity
Nesting areas
Witness the busy aerial displays of sand martins, especially during breeding season.
Otter Encounters
Waterways
Keep an eye out for otters, a rarer but thrilling sight, often seen with their cubs.
Diverse Birdlife
Various hides and feeders
From lapwings to goldfinches, the reserve teems with a wide array of bird species.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Best Time for Birdwatching
Accessibility & Amenities
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
Bring Binoculars! :binoculars:
Essential for spotting distant birds and wildlife. You won't regret it!
Check Wildlife Sightings :magnifying_glass:
Local groups often share recent sightings online, helping you plan your visit.
Accessible Paths :wheelchair:
Enjoy the reserve with ease; paths are level and suitable for wheelchairs.
Pack Snacks :apple:
While there are nearby cafes, bringing your own snacks is convenient for longer visits.
Tips
from all over the internet
Bring Binoculars! :binoculars:
Essential for spotting distant birds and wildlife. You won't regret it!
Check Wildlife Sightings :magnifying_glass:
Local groups often share recent sightings online, helping you plan your visit.
Accessible Paths :wheelchair:
Enjoy the reserve with ease; paths are level and suitable for wheelchairs.
Pack Snacks :apple:
While there are nearby cafes, bringing your own snacks is convenient for longer visits.
Respect Wildlife :dove:
Maintain a safe distance and avoid disturbing the animals in their natural habitat.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors consistently praise Blashford Lakes for its peaceful atmosphere and abundant wildlife, particularly its diverse bird population. The well-maintained, accessible paths and clean bird hides contribute to a highly enjoyable and relaxing experience for all. While dining options are limited on-site, nearby cafes offer convenient alternatives.
"Such a beautiful and peaceful place to spend sometime in. The paths are all level and great for folk using wheel chairs. There was at least one motorised one hired out while we were there. Toilets on site. The hides are great to view the wildlife and in particular the birds. I saw a heron catch a fish and fly off. Note to take binoculars next time. Also picked loads of blackberries. We then finished off our time with lunch at Hockey's farm shop and farmyard cafe (a 5 minute drive away)."
Julie Iles
"Amazing place to visit. Free parking and toilets. Hides are great and if your patient you might even spot a kingfisher whoosh past."
Jonathan Melville
"Lovely well kept nature reserve! Fantastic to see and hear some many different species of birds!"
Alicia Kent
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Blashford Lakes is located near Ringwood, Hampshire. It's accessible by car, with free parking available on-site. Public transport options might be limited, so checking local bus routes is recommended if you're not driving.
Yes, there is free parking available at the reserve, which is convenient for visitors arriving by car.
Cycling is a great way to explore the New Forest area, and Blashford Lakes is often part of scenic cycling routes. Check local cycling maps for the best paths.
While accessible by car, public transport options may require careful planning. It's advisable to check local bus timetables in advance.
The nearest town is Ringwood, Hampshire. It offers amenities and is a good starting point for exploring the area.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
Blashford Lakes Nature Reserve is generally free to enter, and parking is also free.
The reserve is typically open daily from dawn till dusk, allowing ample time for exploration. Specific hours can be confirmed with the Hampshire & Isle of Wight Wildlife Trust.
No, tickets are not required for general entry to Blashford Lakes. It's a public nature reserve.
While not always advertised, keep an eye out for special events or guided walks organized by the Hampshire & Isle of Wight Wildlife Trust, which sometimes include Blashford Lakes.
Dogs are generally welcome at Blashford Lakes, but they must be kept on a lead to protect the wildlife. Always check local signage for specific rules.
📸 📸 Photography & Wildlife
Blashford Lakes is renowned for its diverse birdlife, including kingfishers, sand martins, lapwings, and oystercatchers. Otters have also been spotted here. 
The numerous bird hides strategically placed around the lakes offer excellent vantage points for observing various bird species.
With patience and the right equipment (like binoculars or a telephoto lens), it's possible to capture stunning wildlife photos. The hides provide good cover.
Kingfishers are often spotted in the early mornings or late afternoons, especially during warmer months. Patience is key!
Consider visiting during the golden hours (early morning or late afternoon) for softer light. Use a telephoto lens for wildlife and be prepared to wait quietly in the hides.
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
There are no dining facilities directly within the reserve. However, nearby Hockey's Farm Shop and Farmyard Cafe is a popular choice for lunch, just a short drive away.
Yes, picnicking is a great option. There are often designated areas or simply find a scenic spot to enjoy your own food.
Hockey's Farm Shop and Farmyard Cafe is a highly recommended nearby option. You can also find pubs and cafes in the nearby town of Ringwood.
Yes, the New Forest National Park has numerous charming villages with pubs and cafes, such as Burley and Brockenhurst, offering various dining experiences.
Typically, there are no shops or cafes within the reserve itself. It's best to bring your own refreshments or plan to visit a nearby establishment.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
Look out for special events or wildlife walks that might be organized by the local trust, which can add an extra layer of fun and learning for children.
The chance to see birds feeding or even spot an otter can be a truly memorable experience for young nature lovers.🚶♀️ Solo Travelers & Peace Seekers
Solo visitors can enjoy the freedom to explore at their own pace, focusing on birdwatching or photography without any pressure. The reserve's accessibility also means you can enjoy a comfortable and stress-free visit, allowing for maximum relaxation and rejuvenation.
📸 Wildlife Photographers
+2Consider visiting during the golden hours for optimal lighting conditions. The reserve's diverse habitats mean you can photograph a wide range of species, from small finches at feeders to larger wetland birds.
Remember to respect the wildlife and maintain a safe distance to ensure ethical photography practices.Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Wildlife of Blashford Lakes
+2Beyond the birds, there's a chance to spot other fascinating creatures. Otters have been seen frolicking in the waters, a truly special encounter for lucky visitors.
The reserve also provides opportunities to see more common wetland birds like lapwings and oystercatchers, as well as smaller garden birds at feeding stations. +1Conservation efforts are evident, with initiatives like nesting boxes designed for declining species such as swifts and house martins.
This focus on habitat management ensures that Blashford Lakes remains a vital sanctuary for wildlife, offering a rewarding experience for nature enthusiasts and photographers alike.Photography at Blashford Lakes
The bird hides are invaluable for photographers, providing a concealed and stable platform to observe and capture images without disturbing the wildlife.
While capturing close-ups of elusive species like kingfishers or otters can be challenging, the reserve's accessible paths and varied viewpoints mean you can still get great shots of a wide range of birdlife and the serene wetland scenery.
+2Accessibility and Visitor Experience
The bird hides are a significant feature, providing comfortable and effective vantage points for observing wildlife. They are clean and well-kept, enhancing the overall visitor experience.
While there are no on-site dining facilities, the proximity to places like Hockey's Farm Shop and Cafe means visitors can easily combine a peaceful nature visit with a pleasant meal.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit