Explore a transformed iron mine now teeming with breeding terns, waders, and wildflowers across coastal lagoons and grassland.

Hodbarrow is a remarkable nature reserve located on the Cumbrian coast, showcasing one of Britain's most successful habitat transformations. What was once an industrial iron mine has evolved into a thriving wetland ecosystem, featuring a coastal lagoon, grassland, and limestone-rich habitats that attract diverse wildlife year-round. The reserve is particularly celebrated for its breeding bird populations, especially during May to July when tern colonies are at their most active. Visitors can observe Great Crested Grebes nesting on islands, alongside Little Terns, Common Terns, and Sandwich Terns, as well as Ringed Plovers, Redshanks, and Oystercatchers. The limestone leftover from mining days supports rich communities of insects and wildflowers, while inland scrub patches provide excellent birdwatching opportunities. Families can walk the seawall and access hides to view wildlife at close range, making it ideal for all ages and abilities. The reserve offers free entry and welcomes dogs and pushchairs, ensuring accessible outdoor exploration. RSPB staff actively manage the site to maintain ideal conditions for breeding birds and wintering waders, creating a peaceful natural sanctuary where visitors can connect with wildlife while supporting conservation efforts.

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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David Barker

3 months ago

Lovely views and a pleasant walk.

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Jane Yates

a year ago

We found this by chance, during a visit to the Lake District, whist staying near Ravenglass. It is a beautiful, quiet place which is a perfect haven for wildlife of all kinds, plus interesting flora. The industrial relicts of iron ore mining and quarrying make for added interest and a reserve with very varied habitats for all flora and fauna. The beaches and sea views made for a completely enjoyable visit - thank you!

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Vivian Mires

a year ago

Nice preserved area for wildlife. In April, there are many nesting birds at the protected area. You can view them from a hide above. It seems you can even drive for part of the path, but the walk was pleasant. The only drawback is there is no toilet here.

M

Mark Whitemoss

2 years ago

Not too bad of a walk. Plenty of parking on the road leading into the sanctuary. Very small car park inside with no facilities. Lots of potholes all the way round,so not really wheelchair friendly.Walked through the caravan park back to car.

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H L D

2 years ago

Excellent place for a stroll in a wheelchair mostly compacted earth, so suitable for all terrain wheelchair or scooters. Free Parking. Car park further in is not suitable for low ground clearance vehicles as you might get grounded as the road is deeply rutted. Excellent views and great abundance of nature to see. The route is circular around 3 miles in a wheelchair. There are no signs when you reach the caravan park just follow the road around, and you should reach where you started from.

Reviews last updated: 7 October 2026