Explore winding waterways and wetland habitats to spot migrating birds, waders, and ducks from comfortable viewing hides and scenic walking trails.

Bowling Green and Goosemoor is an RSPB nature reserve located at the junction of the River Exe and River Clyst near Topsham, offering families an excellent opportunity to observe diverse bird species in their natural habitat. The reserve features The Lookout hide, open Wednesday to Sunday, providing comfortable indoor viewing of wildlife throughout the year. Visitors can enjoy panoramic views across the wetlands by walking or cycling along elevated tracks to Darts Farm, with multiple viewpoints perfect for spotting Black-tailed Godwits, Redshanks, Little Egrets, and seasonal migrating birds. The reserve is particularly busy during autumn and winter when thousands of overwintering birds arrive, including flocks of Redshanks, Greenshanks, Dunlins, and hundreds of Curlews seeking their roosting spots. Spring and autumn migrations also bring exciting birdwatching opportunities. The site encompasses two reserves in one visit, as RSPB Goosemoor is located just east and easily accessible under the railway bridge. Suitable for all ages and abilities, the reserve offers accessible parking with Blue Badge spaces and accessible facilities. The combination of wildlife gardens, viewing hides, and scenic walking paths makes it an ideal destination for families interested in nature, birdwatching, and outdoor exploration. Dogs are welcome, and pushchairs are accommodated, making it family-friendly for visitors of all ages.

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

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Tara Sanders

3 weeks ago

I visited Bowling Green Marsh for the 1st time 2 weeks ago. There's a short walk from the Topsham carpark down to it, but it's worth it. Quite a large hide and education area. Plenty of seating. On-hand RSPB volunteer with long lens and a log of recently viewed birds. Although I went near high tide, it was still quite dry, but I saw loads of waders including 4 spoonbills. Not much of a walk around the rest of the RSPB area, the hide is the main attraction, but it's a short walk to Topsham Quay and Goat Walk, so you can spot plenty of other birds around there.

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Kerry Gleave

a year ago

This place is awesome, great for everyone. I could have left my husband there all day and the volunteer at The Hide was very knowledgeable. The binoculars available to use are a fantastic touch ensuring you get up close but from a distance. So glad we stumbled on this place. We will definitely be returning.

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Cornfields Dancing

2 years ago

This is a fabulous location for a quiet walk or cycle ride. Good paths which are very accessible. The nearest car parking is near the Lighter Inn on Topsham Quay. Lots of birds and wildlife to see at any time of the day. Well worth a visit.

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Mia (Mia)

2 years ago

A lovely short walk from the train station to a tranquil well looked after wetland, where you can see lots of different birds. Well worth being a RSPB member and contributing to this, and many other, sanctuaries for beautiful birds.

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Giles Booth

6 years ago

A great place to introduce children to bird watching and general interest in nature. There's a bird hide for pros and a separate relaxed area for children. A couple of sofas birds cards and a library. Its heated too. There's even some hot drinks and snacks on offer (probably weekends only).

Reviews last updated: 29 September 2026