Coombe Hill Nature Reserve

Coombe Hill Nature Reserve sits just to the north of Gloucester on a former canal. On the reserve there is a mixture of wetland and meadow habitats, where you are likely to see many different species of birds such as heron, reed warbler and long tailed tit.

We visited the site in August 2022 and the main wetland areas were completely dry, though at this time we are in a major drought. We didn't see any of the water fowl that Coombe Hill is known for, though there were several herons to be seen.

Although marked on the maps at the site, the Long Pool Hide which is supposed to be accessed from the northern meadows has been removed.

At certain times of year cattle are grazed on the meadows.

Please note that to access the majority of the site you need to walk along the old canal tow path, with is quite bumpy and uneven. Apart from the area immediately around the carpark, the site is not suitable for pushchairs or wheelchairs.