1.Brandon Marsh

At number one, it has to be the wonderful Brandon Marsh (SSSI)! Our flagship nature reserves and a wetland wonderland. Alongside the expanse of wetland features such as rivers, pools and reedbeds, there is also a wealth of different habitats. Summer is a great time to visit as the reserve is well and truly alive. The welcomed dappled shade of the woodlands and the buzzing meadows means there is an abundance  of wildlife to spot. And of course, who can miss out on a delicious cold ice cream after a hot walk!

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2.Snitterfield Bushes

In at number two is Snitterfield Bushes (SSSI) where shady woodland, punctuated with open glades and rides provides home to many different species of woodland butterflies and birds. The northern section (taking care to cross the road) provides a wonderful circular route to take in an early morning or early evening walk when the site is most alive.

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3. Bishop's Hill

Bishop's Hill comes in at number three this summer. Just north of Bishop's Itchington, this post-industrial site is fantastic sight on a clear day. Views across the Warwickshire landscape from the top of the hill are worth the climb and because of the limestone loving plants, you might be lucky enough to spot a rare small blue butterfly. However, keep a keen eye out, as they are only the size of a fingernail.

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4. Clowes Wood

This summer’s number four is Clowes Wood (SSSI), found in the east of the county and not far from Solihull. It’s a wonderful ancient woodland with diverse woodland plants, and for the more adventurous, you can take in walks to the wider Earlswood Lakes complex too.

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5. Ashlawn Cutting

And finally, in at number five is Ashlawn Cutting, Rugby. The trains are long gone, but the valuable work of the local Rugby Wildlife Group is clear to see. The one mile plus linear nature reserve is a wonderful place for a summer stroll. Taking you from the centre of Rugby, out into the Rainsbrook Valley, the flat and accessible surface is a great place to spot wildflowers, a host of bird species and sometimes the elusive muntjac deer this time of year. 

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