RSPB Wetland Newport

Vast reedbeds, shady woodland and stunning views of the Severn Estuary are all just a stone's throw from the city at Newport Wetlands National Nature Reserve. Whether you're looking for a quiet walk in tranquil surroundings, a day out with the kids, a bit of retail therapy or a chance to relax with a cup of tea, Newport Wetlands is the place for you.

Situated just 10 minutes from Junction 24 of the M4 on West Nash Road, Nash, Newport Wetlands comprises 145 acres of reedbeds through which you can walk on our many trails, a unique children's play area, picnic area and the award-winning Environmental Education and Visitor Centre.

Newport Wetlands is situated on part of the Gwent Levels and was created in 2000 to compensate for the loss of the mudflats in Cardiff Bay. It is owned and run by the Countryside Council for Wales (CCW) in partnership with the Royal Society for the Protection of Birds (RSPB) and Newport City Council.

The area where reedbeds now tower over visitors and lagoons glitter in the sunlight was formerly used as a dumping site for coal ash by the nearby Uskmouth Power Station. But today, the area is a vital habitat and makes up 10 percent of reedbeds in Wales. There are a number of nature trails of varying lengths and around the reserve, with easy accessibility for wheelchairs and pushchairs.

Some of the star species to look out for when you're out and about on the reserve include bearded tits, dunlin, avocet, little grebe, little egret, curlew and shoveler almost all year round, as well as large numbers of teal, wigeon, gadwall, and even rare goldeneye in winter. The reserve is also a great habitat for butterflies, dragonflies and plants including rarely seen orchids.

The visitor centre, which is owned and run by the RSPB, opened in March 2008 and includes a coffee shop, retail shop, education rooms, a conference room, toilets, disabled toilets and baby-changing. The car park is 180 metres from the visitor centre, with six disabled parking spaces and room for coach and bus parking. Bus service 63 runs from Newport Bus Station to Newport Wetlands car park.

Entry to the visitor centre and reserve is free and events are held throughout the year. Children's events include mini beast hunting, pond dipping and beginners birdwatching, while adults events range from guided walks to art classes and there are also a number of family activities.

The RSBP also runs Living Classrooms at Newport Wetlands. There is an exciting range of school and college visits led by experienced field teachers, designed to bring learning to life. Pupils and students can explore nature for themselves, studying the environment first-hand.

Newport Wetlands Environmental Education and Visitor Centre is open all year round except Christmas Day. The centre is open 9am - 5pm, the coffee shop is open 10am - 4pm and the car park is open 8.30am -5.30pm.