Nature Reserves

The borough has seven Local Nature Reserves and one National Nature Reserve, all designated for their important features.

All of our nature reserves have free admission and are open 7 days a week.

A number of events and activtiies take place at each Nature Reserve throughout the year. Visit the Events page for further details.

Wren's Nest National Nature Reserve

Wren's Nest National Nature Reserve is of international importance for its geology and is visited and studied by geologists from all over the world.

Over 400 million years ago, the area where Dudley now stands was covered by coral reefs and tropical seas providing an environment for the famous fossils we find there today.

Barrow Hill Local Nature Reserve

Saltwells Nature Reserve

Lady Dudley planted Saltwells Wood in the 18th century to hide the scars of coal mining and this is now Saltwells Nature Reserve.

Saltwells Local Nature Reserve

Birmimgham and Black Country Biodiveristy Action Plan

The Birmingham and Black Country Biodiversity Action Plan (LBAP) identifies the priorities for wildlife conservation in the area.

Cotwell End Local Nature Reserve

Cotwell End Local Nature Reserve has a rich history and geology associated with its agricultural and industrial past. The site has some important wildlife with nationally rare flora and fauna.

Barrow Hill

Barrow Hill Local Nature Reserve is one of the most significant and well-loved areas of green space in the Borough.

It supports our largest and most diverse area of grassland, ancient woodland, ponds with populations of Great Crested Newt and other important habitats and species.

Bumble Hole and Warrens Hall

The area as a whole is unique, with its variety of historical features, water pools, wild flowers and birds utilising the quiet canal route.

Bumble Hole and Warrens Hall Local Nature Reserve has areas of open grass, ideal for family recreation and smaller shaded and un-shaded areas perfect for picnics.

Buckpool and Fens Pools Nature Reserve

Buckpool and Fens Pools Nature Reserve has the largest area of open water in Dudley and the Fens Pools are important for migrating and over-wintering waterfowl, regularly attracting ducks such as Shoveler and Gadwall. The smaller ponds north of the Pools are the habitat of huge numbers of frogs, toads and newts, including the Great Crested Newt.