RSPB Lakenheath Fen

RSPB Lakenheath Fen

RSPB Lakenheath Fen sits on the Suffolk side of the Norfolk border, between Brandon and Hockwold cum Wilton. Today, the reserve features reedbeds, wet grassland, grazing marsh, and poplar woodland. Just over thirty years ago, much of this area was intensively farmed arable land.

 

This history sets Lakenheath apart from older, untouched fens. Since the mid-1990s, the RSPB has created almost 500 hectares of wetland by shaping the land and carefully managing water. Instead of one large area of deep water, they built a diverse reedbed. You can read more about this transformation in our feature, The Arable Ghost: How RSPB Lakenheath Fen Was Rebuilt.

Marsh Harriers are often seen flying over the reeds. Bitterns, Bearded Tits, Water Rails, and Cetti’s Warblers all add to the reserve’s fenland feel. Common Cranes visit the wider reserve, but they can be hard to spot, so it’s worth keeping an eye on the sky as well as the reedbeds. In spring and summer, you’ll also find Hobbies, more warblers, and plenty of dragonflies.

Lakenheath is a large reserve that’s best explored over at least half a day. A main track leads to the main reedbeds and viewpoints, and there are also woodland and riverbank paths for variety. Some paths are flat and easy to walk, but others can be uneven or muddy, especially after rain.

For up-to-date information on access, trail conditions, and facilities, please visit the official RSPB Lakenheath Fen website.