Lorton Meadows Conservation Centre by Vicky Ashby
Volunteering at Lorton Meadows by Sam Dallimore
Children pond dipping at Lorton Meadows by Katharine Davies
Lorton Meadows Conservation Centre
Location
OS Map Reference
SY675826
Know before you go
Entry fee
NoneParking information
Car park at conservation CentreBicycle parking
YesGrazing animals
Please be aware that we have cattle (cows and a bull) on the reserve throughout the year. Please see below for map for more information.Walking trails
Network of marked paths including nature trails and the Legacy Trial (Lorton to Portland Bill) - leaflets available from Centre.
Access
Please be aware that we have cattle (cows and a bull) on the reserve throughout the year. Please refrain from walking your dog through the meadow(s) marked with a red dog traffic light. For more information, please see the posters and leaflets at the Conservation Centre and signs on the field gates. Below is a map of the areas affected and more information about the dog traffic light system operating on the reserve.
Find out more about the Lorton Meadows Nature Reserve here.
There are gates at most entrances. Unsurfaced paths (apart from Centre surrounds). Disabled access and toilets at Centre.
Take precautions against ticks.
Dogs
Facilities
When to visit
Opening times
April to September:Open to the public 10am-5pm, Wednesday – Sunday and during events.
October to March:
Winter opening hours (10am – 4pm) from 1st October to 31st March.
Open during scheduled events and for school visits, group bookings and room hire.
Best time to visit
Spring and Summer for flowers, insects and birds.About the reserve
Drop in to the Conservation Centre for a reviving hot drink, or soothing cold drink, we have fairtrade, organic tea and coffee, plus cold fruity drinks and locally made sweet treats. Relax and watch the live cameras for glimpses of feeding birds in the winter and nesting birds (kestrel, barn owl & great tit) in the spring & summer, or buy one of our wildlife guides so you can spot nature on your own patch.
The picnic area and outdoor classroom are the perfect places for lunch whatever the weather (please take all your rubbish home). Children can have fun on our wildlife inspired play area and there’s plenty of information to help you explore the reserve in the outdoor classroom.
For information about the reserve, including maps, nature trails, access, species and habitats, please see the Lorton Meadows Nature Reserve page.
Help make a difference to your local wildlife by volunteering: you could assist us in the Centre, welcoming visitors, help with our events programme or join us for Volunteer Conservation Tasks and surveying the reserve. Please contact us on 01305 816546 to find out more.
Contact us
Environmental designation
Lorton Meadows Conservation Centre
Visitor Information - Grazing Cattle at Lorton Meadows
Please see below for a link to the Lorton Meadows dog traffic light guidance leaflet and a map with the areas affected by grazing cattle.
Lorton Meadows dog walking traffic light guide
Lorton Cattle grazing March 2019
Education at Lorton Meadows
Whether it's searching for minibeasts, pond dipping, identifying trees, or getting stuck into a practical task, we have a range of learning opportunities for Key Stage 1- 4, that can be tailored to suit individual groups. Download the education opportunities leaflet below and contact us to discuss your requirements. For A Level or Higher Education groups please contact us on 01305 816546.
Events at Lorton Meadows Conservation Centre
Upcoming events at Lorton Meadows
