Visit Woodwalton Fen

Explore peaceful paths through the reeds, hear the calls of birds and watch dragonflies dart along the water's edge.  Woodwalton Fen is a paradise for nature lovers and photographers, and a window into a lost world.

The ancient wild fens once stretched for miles across a huge part of East Anglia but more than 99% of the habitat disappeared when the land was drained for agriculture. Woodwalton Fen is one of the last fragments of this ancient fen to survive. 

This beautiful reserve is internationally important and provides a refuge for thousands of species of fen animals and plants, many of which are found nowhere else in the country. It is a National Nature Reserve, a Ramsar site and a Special Area of Conservation

With its reedbeds, woodland, meres and wildflower meadows, Woodwalton Fen shows us what the Great Fen might look in the future.

Species and habitats

As you enter this beautiful nature reserve with its grass paths, tranquil waterways, meadows, reedbed and woodland, you are surrounded by stunning wildlife.

This relatively small reserve provides a home for thousands of species, and is recognised nationally and internationally for its importance to wildlife. Take a look at the Wildlife of Woodwalton Fen page to find out more about the amazing species and habitats that can be seen at this reserve.

Explore on a trail

There are several waymarked trails at Woodwalton Fen taking in the key features of the site, including the Rothschild Bungalow, Great Fen view and bird hides. They are all on wide grass paths that can be muddy and undulating, depending on the time of year and weather. A view over the Great Fen can be seen from the west bank, which has access via steps or grass ramps (the ramps are approximately 15 metres, fairly steep, gradient 1 in 9).

There are no steps, stiles or gates along paths on the main trails, although occasionally you will find gates blocking access when cattle are being moved or are grazing. To find out more detailed information about the trails at Woodwalton Fen visit the Woodwalton Fen interactive map.

History highlights

Woodwalton Fen is now one of only four remaining fragments of the ancient fens. It would not exist if it were not for Charles Rothschild, successful banker and wildlife enthusiast.  Rothschild bought Woodwalton Fen in 1910 to ensure that at least one part of the ancient fens  would not disappear forever. It was one of the first nature reserves in Britain. Find out more about the history of Woodwalton Fen.

Other parts of the Great Fen to visit nearby

Darlow's and Middle Farms

Darlow's Farm was the first area of Great Fen land to begin to be restored in 2004. Follow paths in Woodwalton Fen north (right as you enter), all the way to the north bank, on the edge of the reserve. From the bank there are great views over this new wet meadow, which has nesting and hunting Barn Owls and Kestrels, as well as wading birds such as Lapwing and Snipe. From there you may see Highland and other cattle and also the location of Darlow's Cottage, currently being rebuilt at Ramsey Rural Museum.

Take a look at Darlow's and Middle Farm page for more information.

The Wildlife Trust Countryside Centre

This is set in a small Wildlife Trust reserve just half a mile from Woodwalton Fen. The Wildlife Trust Countryside Centre page has more information.

Great Fen Information Point (New Decoy Farm)

This opened in March 2013 and is situated a carpark alongside the B660. There are maps and information about the Great Fen and you can walk around some of the previously cultivated fields that are now being restored. Details are here.