Grazing marsh with a large open water area important for birds

Almost opposite our extensive reserve at Amberley Wildbrooks, just across the river, lies Waltham Brooks. In winters of very heavy rainfall almost the entire reserve becomes a giant lake. Wildfowl such as teal, shoveler, wigeon and pintail then take advantage of the sanctuary and feeding opportunities offered.

What you can see

Wildfowl including teal, redshank, snipe, lapwing and marsh plants.

Getting around

Waltham Brooks is near the village of Cold Waltham, two miles south of Pulborough. There is a small car park adjacent to Greatham Bridge, and from there the public footpath that runs alongside the old canal can be picked up. Views across most of the 43 hectare reserve can be had from this footpath which continues across the railway track to Watersfield (please look both ways!). There are some gates and stiles along the way — please keep to the path as the rest of the site is not open to the public.

Lapwing by Darin Smithr