If you’re a nature lover, Cornwall is a paradise waiting to be explored, and the RSPB reserves at Hayle Estuary and Marazion Marsh are two must-visit gems.
From the dramatic tidal estuary at Hayle, teeming with ducks, waders, and the occasional rare visitor, to the tranquil reedbeds of Marazion Marsh beneath the iconic St Michael’s Mount, these reserves offer a perfect mix of birdwatching, scenic walks, and wildlife encounters.
Whether you’re chasing the spectacle of starling murmurations, spotting wintering Bitterns, or simply enjoying a peaceful stroll along the estuary or marsh paths, both sites provide a memorable escape into Cornwall’s natural beauty.
RSPB Hayle Estuary Nature Reserve
The RSPB Hayle Estuary Nature Reserve, located in Hayle, Cornwall, is a haven for birdwatchers and nature enthusiasts.
LOCATION MAP: Carnsew Pool, Hayle TR27 6JF
As the most south-westerly estuary in the UK, it serves as a vital stopover for migratory birds, particularly during the winter months.
The reserve encompasses several key areas, including Lelant Saltings, Carnsew Pool, Copperhouse Creek, Ryan’s Field, and Porthkidney Sands, each offering unique habitats for a diverse range of species.
Visitors can enjoy a variety of walking routes, such as the circular trail around Ryan’s Field, which is suitable for pushchairs and offers level, surfaced terrain.
The Eric Grace Memorial Hide provides excellent opportunities for birdwatching, allowing guests to observe species like Teal, Wigeon, and Little Egret in their natural environment.
The reserve is also a prime location for spotting rare birds, including the occasional Osprey during summer months.
Access and Facilities
Access to the reserve is free, with parking available at Ryan’s Field.
While there are no on-site toilets, accessible facilities can be found in Hayle, approximately 500 meters from the Carnsew entrance.
RSPB Marazion Marsh Nature Reserve
The RSPB Marazion Marsh Nature Reserve, situated just west of Marazion and beneath the iconic St Michael’s Mount, is Cornwall’s largest reedbed and one of the most biodiverse wetland habitats in the UK.
LOCATION MAP: Marazion Beach, Marazion TR17 0AA
Covering 63 hectares, this tranquil reserve is a haven for over 250 bird species, 500 plant species, 500 insect species, and 18 mammal species.
It’s a designated Site of Special Scientific Interest (SSSI) and a Special Protection Area (SPA), reflecting its importance for wildlife conservation.
The marsh is particularly renowned for its role in supporting wintering Bitterns and as a stopover for the globally threatened Aquatic Warbler.
In autumn and winter, visitors can witness spectacular starling murmurations, where thousands of birds perform aerial acrobatics over the reedbeds at dusk, often attracting the attention of predators like buzzards and sparrowhawks.
Access and Facilities
Access to the reserve is free via public footpaths.
While there are no on-site facilities, nearby Marazion offers parking and public toilets. Please note that dogs are only permitted on public footpaths and must be kept on a lead at all times to protect the wildlife.
