Our upcoming blogs will highlight a series of walks, perfect for a nice winters day in the Eastern Region.
If you're looking for an easy stroll or a walk that everyone in the family will be up for, then Minsmere nature reserve is for you. Made famous due to its appearances on Springwatch, Minsmere has a vast array of species to see throughout the year. There is a choice of three short circular trails to choose from, that will take you through a variety of habitats and bring you closer to some of Minsmere's most exciting wildlife. To discover what makes Minsmere special, start exploring today.
1. Coast trail - 2 miles (3.4 km) - 2 hours
Firstly you will pass migrant birds feeding on the North Bushes and spectacular reed bed views along the North Wall. There are five hides overlooking the lagoons, where gulls, terns and avocets nest, migrant wading birds feed and hundreds of ducks will spend their winter. Head south along the beach to scan the Minsmere Levels and return through the reedbeds. The coastal element is part of the Suffolk Coast Path that runs from Felixstowe to Lowestoft.
Photo: Nick Cunard
2. Woodland trail - 1 miles (1.5km) - 1 hour
A relatively new trail, this unsurfaced path takes you deep into Minsmere's woodlands to our Wild Zone and Nature Discovery Centre, perfect for kids to explore.
3. Island Mere trail - 1.5 miles (2.4km) - 2 hours
Here you can walk through oak woodland with Bittern hide and Island Mere hide overlooking the reedbeds. Look our for tit and finch flocks in winter and if you're lucky, a majestic red deer may stroll past you. Take a quick break in the skywatching seats on Whin Hill before heading back to the visitor centre.
Photo: Roger Jones
And if the winter walk has left you feeling peckish, there's a great cafe on site full of tasty treats!
The reserve will be closed on Boxing day and open as normal from December 27. For information on the wheelchair and pushchair accessibility of each trail, please check our Facilities page.
If you're looking for more beginner or family friendly walks in Suffolk, visit Discover Suffolk.