Explore wetland habitats stretching from Brading village to Bembridge Harbour, perfect for spotting diverse birdlife and wildlife year-round.

Brading Marshes is an RSPB nature reserve on the Isle of Wight that offers families an accessible introduction to birdwatching and wildlife observation. The reserve stretches across the River Yar valley from the village of Brading down to the sea at Bembridge Harbour, featuring a rich variety of habitats ideal for spotting wildlife. Visitors can expect to see an impressive array of birds throughout the year, including Buzzards, Little Egrets, Green Woodpeckers, Marsh Harriers, and Hobbies. Spring brings migrant breeding birds and the chance to hear Cuckoos, Blackcaps, and Chiffchaffs, while winter attracts large flocks of Wildfowl and waders. The reserve is also home to butterflies and Red Squirrels, making it a haven for diverse wildlife. The reserve is particularly welcoming to families new to birdwatching, with designated walking paths throughout. Dogs are welcome on the paths (on a short lead), and pushchair access is available, making it suitable for visitors of all ages. Multiple car parks provide access to different sections of the reserve, with Brading station car park being the closest option. Visitors should note that public toilets are available in Brading town, approximately 0.75 miles away.

Venue Details

What this place offers

Toilets

Public transport nearby

Accessible toilets

Free WiFi

Baby changing facilities

Food available

On-site parking

🐕Dog-friendly

Parking nearby

Pushchair friendly

D

Donna W

a year ago

Lovely place to walk through. Recommend a walk through the marshes.

J

Joe Downing

3 years ago

An RSPB Reserve in the sense that it's RSPB protected and managed land, rather than a "classic" reserve with hides and paths through it. Viewing from the Embankment road bridge (over the river Yar) will let you see roosting cormorants in the closer trees and at the moment (and for the last few months) a pair of White-tailed Eagles perched up in the middle of the reserve! They are about 0.4 miles away, so bring binoculars, but are hence well protected and not disturbed by viewers.

R

Rachel Cole

4 years ago

We hadn't intended to visit here, but couldn't get the bus direct to the nearby Roman Villa, so walked from the bus stop to the Villa through this nature reserve. The butterflies and crickets were a joyous discovery, and the sheep bleating were heart-warming. Georgeous views and so quiet (apart from the crickets). Lovely!

F

Frances Harris

5 years ago

Wonderful circular walk (6.5 miles), fantastic views, lots of varieties of birds.

B

Ben Jayston

8 years ago

Beautiful marshland, lots of birds, very lush and warm, many different plants and good for blackberries.

Reviews last updated: 29 September 2026