
Kirtlington Quarry Nature Reserve
Discover ancient fossils and wander through mossy woodlands and along scenic canals at Kirtlington Quarry Nature Reserve.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Spot Brimstone butterflies

Kirtlington Quarry Nature Reserve
Best Time
Spot Brimstone butterflies
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Discover ancient fossils and wander through mossy woodlands and along scenic canals at Kirtlington Quarry Nature Reserve.
"A dream spot for a walk with the children, offering fossil hunting and muddy fun!"

๐ฅพ Wear Sturdy Footwear
Paths can be muddy, especially in the woods. Waterproof boots are a must for a comfortable walk!
๐ Fossil Hunter's Kit
Bring a small bag for your fossil finds! You never know what ancient treasures you might discover.

Quick Facts
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Fossil Hunting Grounds
Quarry areas
Unearth ancient marine fossils in this unique geological site. A treasure trove for budding paleontologists!

Woodland Wanderings
Woodland paths
Explore mossy, quaint paths winding through sheltered woodlands. Perfect for a peaceful stroll.

Canal Side Strolls
Canal towpath
Enjoy scenic walks alongside the tranquil canal, spotting charming canal boats.

Rope Swing Thrills
Designated areas
Experience the joy of a classic rope swing for some playful outdoor fun.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Embrace the Muddy Adventure
Fossil Hunting Fun
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
๐ฅพ Wear Sturdy Footwear
Paths can be muddy, especially in the woods. Waterproof boots are a must for a comfortable walk!
๐ Fossil Hunter's Kit
Bring a small bag for your fossil finds! You never know what ancient treasures you might discover.
๐ถ Dog-Friendly Fun
A great place for dogs! Keep them on a lead in sensitive areas and enjoy the varied terrain.
๐งบ Picnic Perfect
There's open grassy space ideal for a picnic. Pack some snacks and enjoy the natural surroundings.
Tips
from all over the internet
๐ฅพ Wear Sturdy Footwear
Paths can be muddy, especially in the woods. Waterproof boots are a must for a comfortable walk!
๐ Fossil Hunter's Kit
Bring a small bag for your fossil finds! You never know what ancient treasures you might discover.
๐ถ Dog-Friendly Fun
A great place for dogs! Keep them on a lead in sensitive areas and enjoy the varied terrain.
๐งบ Picnic Perfect
There's open grassy space ideal for a picnic. Pack some snacks and enjoy the natural surroundings.
๐ฆ Spring Butterfly Spotting
Visit in spring to catch a glimpse of the beautiful Brimstone butterflies.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors rave about Kirtlington Quarry Nature Reserve for its unique fossil hunting opportunities and charming woodland and canal walks. It's a highly recommended spot for families and dog owners seeking outdoor adventure and a connection with nature. While generally well-loved, some may find the muddy conditions challenging after wet weather.
"Easy to find fossils, Brimstone butterflies in spring, mossy quaint woodland paths, options for scrambling, some rope swings, open grassy space for picnicking - what a dream spot for a walk with the children"
Katy Lou
"Lovely place for a walk, with muddy fun in the woods (including a rope swing) and a lovely little walk down the canal. Trees are nice and sheltered if it's a bit windy and always quite firm under foot even after a lot of rain"
James Hiscott
"Met up with my boat friends it is a beautiful place"
Tracey Taylor
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
๐ ๐บ๏ธ Getting There
The reserve is easily accessible by car. Parking is available at the top, from where you can walk into the woods and follow paths down towards the canal.
While specific public transport routes can vary, it's generally recommended to check local bus services for routes that pass near Kirtlington. Driving is the most convenient option for many visitors.
Follow the marked paths through the woods and along the canal. Many visitors enjoy combining the woodland trails with the canal towpath for a varied walk.
Yes, there's a designated parking area at the top of the reserve, which is a good starting point for exploring the woods.
Cycling is generally permitted on the canal towpath, but it's advisable to be mindful of other users and stick to designated cycling routes where available.
๐ซ ๐ซ Tickets & Entry
Kirtlington Quarry Nature Reserve is a public nature reserve, and typically does not require an entrance fee. Enjoy exploring this natural gem freely!
As a nature reserve, it is generally open from dawn till dusk, allowing visitors to enjoy the space throughout daylight hours.
No, there is no admission fee to enter Kirtlington Quarry Nature Reserve. It's a free-to-access natural area for everyone to enjoy.
The reserve is accessible during daylight hours. It's best to plan your visit to allow ample time to explore before sunset.
General access is permitted, but visitors are expected to respect the natural environment and follow any posted guidelines to preserve the reserve.
๐ซ ๐งญ Onsite Experience
Visitors love fossil hunting, exploring the mossy woodland paths, walking along the canal, and enjoying picnics. There are also rope swings for some playful fun!
Absolutely! It's a fantastic spot for kids, offering muddy adventures, fossil hunting, and rope swings. The varied terrain keeps them engaged.
Yes, Kirtlington Quarry is well-known for its fossil finds. It's a popular activity for visitors of all ages to discover ancient marine fossils.
Facilities are generally limited at nature reserves. It's advisable to bring your own refreshments and plan accordingly.
You might spot various bird species, including swans along the canal, and butterflies like the Brimstone in spring. The diverse habitats support a range of local wildlife.
๐ธ ๐ธ Photography
Capture the mossy woodland paths, the tranquil canal with boats, interesting fossil formations, and the open grassy spaces. The natural light filtering through the trees is often beautiful.
Yes, the diverse landscapes, from woodlands to waterways, offer excellent opportunities for nature photography. Keep an eye out for wildlife too!
Early morning or late afternoon often provide the best light for photography, creating softer shadows and a more atmospheric feel.
The canal towpath offers picturesque views of the water and boats, while the quarry areas can provide dramatic geological backdrops.
Drone usage regulations can vary. It's essential to check local bylaws and guidelines regarding drone operation in nature reserves before flying.




Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit