WWT - River Arrow Local Nature Reserve

The River Arrow Local Nature Reserve is owned by Stratford on Avon District Council and managed by Warwickshire Wildlife Trust.  The reserve is maintained by local volunteers.  This small but varied reserve consists of pasture, river margin and woodland.  Many species of birds, animals and insects are to be found.  Information leaflets are available from the Tourist Information section of Alcester Library or at the entrance to the reserve.  The reserve is located at the end of Ragley Mill Lane, off Birmingham Road.

What's on the Reserve?

The River Arrow runs along the eastern border. Water-loving birds you can see include grey wagtails and - if you're lucky! - the wonderful kingfisher. There's also a pond (which used to be part of the water supply to the mill) with wild ducks and moorhens, as well as frogs, newts and lots of insects like water boatmen and diving beetles.There are lovely old oak trees, willows, ancient hawthorns, and plants like the impressive butterbur, the strange-looking cuckoo pint and the rare small teasel. Wrens and other birds nest in the trees, and beautiful butterflies can be seen in spring and summer. The pasture at the town end of the reserve has meadow flowers including red common sorrell, white yarrow and bird's-foot trefoil. We hope that otters might one day find their way on to the reserve now that the river is much cleaner than it used to be.

Who Are The Friends of River Arrow Nature Reserve?

Working closely with the Warwickshire Wildlife Trust, the Friends provide support to the Reserve by promoting community involvement, helping with management and routine maintenance, and raising funds for the conservation and promotion of the Reserve. Friends can help on the monthly working parties on the Reserve - jobs include planting trees, clearing brambles, and clearing litter, so there is usually something to suit everyone (it's not compulsory; only if you want!). If you join you’ll also receive our newsletter, to keep you in the picture about what is happening on the Reserve - what there is to see, and behind the scenes. There are meetings and other events throughout the year. For further information or a membership form please contact the Volunteer Warden.

If your organisation would like a slide presentation on the natural history and archaeology of the reserve please contact the Volunteer Warden.

If you contact WWT - River Arrow Local Nature Reserve please tell them you found them using alcester.co.uk.