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 on the eastern side of Pershore, Worcestershire, WR10 1EL, along the River Avon. From Pershore town centre, walk towards the river and look for the nature reserve signage.

Car park at the edge of the nature reserve

Parking

Free parking is available at the Avon Meadows long-stay car park. More parking is available at Pershore town centre, a short 10-minute walk from the reserve.

Accessible boardwalk path through the wetland

Access & Facilities

The reserve is freely accessible all year round, from dawn to dusk. Well-maintained paths are suitable for all abilities, and there are a few benches. There is a small bird hide, and there are interpretation boards throughout the site.

What You Can See

Kingfisher perched over the river

Birds

Over 130 bird species have been recorded on Avon Meadows. Residents include Grey Herons, Kingfishers and elusive Cetti’s Warblers. Red Kites and Buzzards appear regularly. In spring Cuckoos and Reed Warblers arrive; Fieldfares and Redwings in winter.

Emperor dragonfly on a reed stem

Insects & Invertebrates

We have an exceptional range of dragonflies and damselflies. Over 20 species have been recorded. The wildflower meadows attract numerous butterfly species, including the Holly Blue and Red Admiral.

Wildflower meadow with ragged robin and yellow iris

Plants & Habitats

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

What You Can Do

Couple walking along the boardwalk at dawn

Walking & Nature Trails

Follow trails through diverse habitats. The main boardwalk offers elevated views across the reed beds and main pond, while riverside paths follow the Avon.

Birdwatcher in a hide overlooking the lake

Birdwatching

Bring your binoculars and enjoy birdwatching from multiple viewing points. You’re welcome to join our regular birdwatchers on Thursday mornings.

Family on a guided nature walk in the meadow

Events & Activities

Friends of Avon Meadows organises walks, wildlife surveys, lectures and other events. Follow us on Facebook, or join our Friends mailing list, for the latest event announcements.

Seasonal Highlights

Every season brings something special to Avon Meadows. Here's what to look out for through the year.

Birds
  • ›The last Swifts pass through
  • ›Stonechats, Whinchats and Wheatears can be found occasionally
  • ›Winter visitors begin to arrive with Fieldfare and Redwing among the first
  • ›Common Snipe on the scrape
  • ›Occasionally, Siskin and Brambling can be found visiting
Plants
  • ›A time to pick Blackberries
  • ›The sloe crop appears on the Blackthorns
  • ›Fungi begin to appear – Turkey-tail and a number of inkcap species
Insects & Other
  • ›Grassland butterflies disappear, so Meadow Brown, Gatekeeper and Ringlet are harder to find
  • ›Butterflies like Small Tortoiseshell, Red Admiral and Comma enjoy sunny spots
  • ›Dragonflies – Southern Hawker and Common Darter can be found
  • ›Diving beetles can be found in areas of water that are not frozen