Parc Slip Nature Reserve

Parc Slip Nature Reserve itself is an area of 300 acres containing a fantastic mix of habitats such as grassland, woodland and wetlands, restored from its previous status as an opencast coal mine. During the summer, the fields near to the Visitor Centre are ablaze with colour as oxeye daisy, ragged robin, orchids, fleabane, red bartsia and numerous other beautiful wildflowers come into bloom. Open water ponds, the wader scrape and wetlands provide habitat for many species of water bird, including teal, lapwing and water rail. There are a number of open access hides and viewing areas throughout the reserve, overlooking the wetland areas and ponds and the lapwing breeding area.

Deciduous and coniferous woodland provide home to green woodpecker and jay, tawny owls, foxes and wood mice. Please see the Wildlife page for more details on the species that can be found on the reserve. After you’ve taken in the wildlife out on the reserve, report your sightings to our friendly staff in the Visitor Centre and relax with a cup of tea in the Coffee Shop overlooking the dipping ponds and wildflower meadows. Wildlife watching from the comfort of an armchair!