I've been meaning to write a post about Langford Lakes for a while. It is in the Wylye Valley, and is a flagship site for Wiltshire Wildlife Trust. It is quite a large nature reserve which used to be a gravel quarry. Over time, the holes filled with water and it is now an established wetland which has become a haven for migrating birds (and bird watchers).
At the base of the valley it is on flat land, but with well established paths it is a peaceful and quiet place to wander and find a place to sit and watch the wildlife. Most of the paths are suitable for pushchairs and wheelchairs.
Around the ponds and lakes there are hides where you can sit and watch the birds - apparently there are 150 different species. It is also a place for fishing, and you can get day tickets to fish for brown trout and grayling. It also acts as a visitor and educational centre, and my own children have been on school visits here in the past.
The River Wylye borders the North edge of the reserve, and the Trust have improved the 800 metres of river that run past it and I've heard that water voles and otters have been spotted recently.
In the summer there are plenty of invertebrates, with many dragon and damselflies. We have also spotted many butterflies on past visits. If you want a peaceful, sedate afternoon stroll this is a fine place to come. But bring your binoculars and if you have one, a long camera lens - combine that with a bit of patience and I'm sure you will be rewarded with sights of some wonderful wildlife.
Access Information
Langford Lakes lies just off the A36 between Salisbury and Warminster. Follow the signs for Steeple Langford from where it is signposted.
Grid ref SU037370.
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