Introduction
Berrow Dunes Local Nature Reserve lies within the much larger Berrow Dunes Site of Special Scientific Interest. It borders the Bridgwater Bay National Nature Reserve which was designated under the Ramsar Convention as a wetland habitat of international importance and special protection area.
The sand dune systems as found within the Local Nature Reserve are rare, both on a national and local scale and contain a wide variety of coastal habitats which support a diverse range of flora and fauna.
Berrow Dunes supports one of the most diverse floras in Somerset, with at least 270 species of flowering plant being recorded on this site. The local nature reserve is also one of the best sites for moths and recently 3 rare species were recorded including the Pinion Spotted Pug Moth last recorded in Somerset in 1868.
In 1992, Somerset Council entered into a management agreement with English Nature, to secure further protection and restoration of the dune system within the Council’s ownership. This part of the dunes was subsequently designated a Local Nature Reserve in 1993 and conservation works continue to take place.
The Reserve is actively managed by Somerset Council, English Nature and Berrow Conservation Group, to provide an attractive area for people to visit and to maintain and enhance its important habitats.
Things to do and events
Berrow Dunes is a great place for a family walk, picnic, or to spot wildlife. You can join Berrow Conservation Group for nature walks or surveys.
For more information about volunteer opportunities at the site, please email countryside@somerset.gov.uk.
Details of our events and volunteer days can be found on our Facebook Page: Berrow Dunes Local Nature Reserve.
Country code
At each season of the year, the Local Nature Reserve is different. However, the natural interest will be greatest if you visit this area on a warm, windless day in June or July.
Would all visitors to the Local Nature Reserve please follow the Country Code;
- Guard against all risk
- Keep your dogs under close control
- Clear up dog mess
- Keep to the paths
- Take your litter home
- Do not pick wildflowers
- Horse riders, please keep to the bridleways
Educational resource for local schools and interested groups
The Local Nature Reserve also fulfils an important role in providing an educational resource for local schools and other interested groups. A ‘Resource Pack For Schools‘ has been designed for use by primary schools and is targeted at Key Stage 1 and Key Stage 2. It includes background information for teachers and activities which can be undertaken in the field, or back in the classroom after a visit to the Reserve. The activities relate to several subject areas, including mathematics, science, geography, art, music and dance.
For further details about the Education Pack or to arrange a ranger led visit to the dunes, please contact the Community Ranger. Email: julia.kennaby@somerset.gov.uk. Phone: 07458 113 790.