Wick Golden Valley Nature Reserve - Image 1

Wick Golden Valley Nature Reserve

Wick, United Kingdom•4.4(411)•Country Park, Nature Reserve

Explore woodland trails, historic ochre quarries, and diverse wildlife habitats including 12 bat species and rare wildflowers in this accessible local nature reserve.

Wick Golden Valley local nature reserve is an ecologically rich woodland area featuring a scenic valley, the River Boyd, grasslands, and Raven's Rock—a high point offering panoramic views across to Wick Quarry and the Cotswolds. The reserve is ideal for families seeking outdoor exploration, with mostly level, surfaced paths in the lower sections suitable for pushchairs and wheelchair users. The accessible red ochre circular trail spans approximately one mile and showcases the site's natural beauty. Beyond its natural attractions, the reserve offers fascinating industrial heritage. Once home to a world-famous ochre processing factory, the site contains remnants of its Victorian past, including former iron works, a paper mill, and rolling mill structures. This unique combination of nature and history creates an educational experience for visitors of all ages. Wildlife enthusiasts will appreciate the reserve's exceptional biodiversity. The diverse habitats support 12 of the UK's 18 bat species, numerous bird nesting sites, and rare botanical specimens including wildflowers and earth star fungi. The venue offers a specially created bat audio trail to enhance wildlife discovery. Entry is free and the reserve welcomes families with young children and those with mobility needs, making it an accessible outdoor destination for all abilities.
OFFICIAL WEBSITE

Opening Hours

Monday: Closed
Tuesday: Closed
Wednesday: Closed
Thursday: Closed
Friday: Closed
Saturday: Closed
Sunday: Closed

Venue Details

Venue Type

Outdoor

Typical visit duration

All day

Booking

Walk-in

Recommended ages

0 months (newborn)+

What this place offers

ToiletsToilets
Public transportPublic transport nearby
Accessible toilets
Free WiFi
Baby changingBaby changing facilities
Food available
On-site parking
🐕Dog-friendly
Parking nearby
Pushchair friendlyPushchair friendly

Google Reviews

4.4(411 reviews)
C
Conrad Povey

Conrad Povey

8 months ago

Beautiful lovely walk, amazing views, brilliant variety or trails and paths and all sorts of small surprises from waterfalls and frogs to smooth snakes

C
Chris Doney

Chris Doney

a year ago

No parking and minimal signage.... However if you are keen to explore and don't mind working it out for yourself you can have a really nice 3 mile circular walk around the quarries, the pinnacle being Ravens Rock viewpoint. I parked outside the local convenience store which is a short walk away from the start of the nature reserve entrance and gives 3 hours parking which is more than enough. Enjoy!

E
Eirini Horianopoulou

Eirini Horianopoulou

a year ago

It was a beautiful day outdoors. We wished there had been more footpath signs and maps along the way, but we still managed to find all the viewpoints overlooking the reservoir. Remember to bring water and snacks with you. My friend and I walked all the way back to Bath, which was a bit of an adventure, but incredibly rewarding! It worth reading about the history of the place and how they mined ochre and iron from the area. There are also Daubenton bats in the area. There are trails marked with glow-in-the-dark discs for you to follow the trail.

T
Trevor Hawkins

Trevor Hawkins

a year ago

Small but interesting nonetheless, no car parking and no cafe or toilets and the overall walk is less than 2 miles. Having said that, it's beautiful especially with the river running through the reserve and the birds that thst attracts. It will be a stunning picture in autumn, I'd guess. It's a small but well proportioned reserve.

N
Natasha Marriott

Natasha Marriott

a year ago

Absolutely Beautiful. This secenic Woodland is Stunning there are a few places to sit and enjoy the sound of the Running Stream which runs alongside the wooded area. You can hear loads of calls from the birds. There are also bat boxes so I suspect at night you can see loads of Bats. The only downside is there is hardly any parking ! You can not park in the community centre !

Reviews last updated: 7 October 2026

Events at Wick Golden Valley Nature Reserve

No upcoming events scheduled

Check back soon for new events at this venue.

This venue was last updated on 7 October 2026

Frequently asked questions about Wick Golden Valley Nature Reserve

Is Wick Golden Valley Nature Reserve free to visit?

Entry to Wick Golden Valley Nature Reserve is completely free — there are no admission charges, making it a great no-cost option for a family day out.

What ages is Wick Golden Valley Nature Reserve suitable for?

Wick Golden Valley Nature Reserve is suitable for visitors of all ages, from babies through to adults.

Is Wick Golden Valley Nature Reserve dog-friendly?

Dogs are not permitted at Wick Golden Valley Nature Reserve.

Is there parking at Wick Golden Valley Nature Reserve?

Wick Golden Valley Nature Reserve doesn't have on-site parking, but parking is available nearby.

Is there food at Wick Golden Valley Nature Reserve?

Wick Golden Valley Nature Reserve doesn't have food on site — bring snacks or grab something nearby.

Is Wick Golden Valley Nature Reserve pushchair-friendly?

Yes, Wick Golden Valley Nature Reserve is pushchair, pram and buggy friendly — most areas are step-free so you can navigate easily with little ones in tow.

How long should we plan to spend at Wick Golden Valley Nature Reserve?

Wick Golden Valley Nature Reserve is a full-day experience — plan accordingly.

How do I get to Wick Golden Valley Nature Reserve by public transport?

Wick Golden Valley Nature Reserve is well-served by public transport.
Kiddy Compass