We were really excited to be able to start getting out and about again as lock down started to ease and Moorlands Nature Reserve had been on our list of places to visit for a while, so we decided it would be one of the first place we would head!
When you arrive, there is parking down the side of the road. I was a bit worried how busy it would be as it was lovely weather, but we found a spot with no issues and could walk along the grass verge down to the gate.
As soon as you walk through the gates, you are in the woodland and it feels peaceful immediately. There is a clear path which leads you to a map of the nature reserve. You don’t have to follow a trail but if you do, there are markers to spot along the way with different animals or plants them. The path is pram friendly which was great for us but there were spots where you could go exploring off the beaten track as well.
The first thing we came across was a pond, we spent some time watching the ducks and even spotted some dragonflies over the water before heading further into the woodland.
We had eaten lunch before we headed out but did take snacks with us (of course! We never leave home without snacks!). There were lots of different spots to sit and eat on the way round but we quite quickly spotted a ‘fairy circle’ with logs and toadstools to perch so decided to stop there and enjoy our food and take in our surroundings.
We then carried on exploring around the trail. We saw lots of insects and bugs and some beautiful flowers as well and wondered who else might live in the woods – my five year old was a bit worried we might bump into the Gruffalo but we were okay!
We then found some fabulous climbing trees, they were nice and low to the ground and both my little ones enjoyed exploring around them and balancing along the branches. We even went back another day and used lots of sticks and leaves to build a house for any fairies that may be living in the woods.
About half way round there is a tree house to play in. This would be a good picnic spot as there was both benches and lots of space for picnic blankets and the children can play in the treehouse. We found that people were good encouraging their children to take turns to ensure Social Distancing was maintain but we are looking forward to going back when they can explore the tree house a bit more
We spent the rest of the walk round taking in the beauty around us and generally putting the world to rights.
It’s not the longest walk and certainly isn’t a full day out. However, it is the perfect spot for an afternoon adventure. Who knows who you might find hiding in the woods!? If you do go to Woodlands Nature Reserve to explore, we’d love to see your pictures and hear about what you got up to!
Mel
Muddy Boots Acomb Manager