Berks, Bucks & Oxon Wildlife Trust - Tring

Berks, Bucks & Oxon Wildlife Trust: A Sanctuary for Nature Lovers

The Berks, Bucks & Oxon Wildlife Trust (BBOWT) is a highly respected non-profit organization dedicated to the conservation and protection of the natural landscapes and wildlife of Berkshire, Buckinghamshire, and Oxfordshire. Situated at Address: 5 Upper Icknield Way, Tring HP23 5QG, United Kingdom, the Trust operates a network of nature reserves, each offering a unique and valuable experience for visitors of all ages. Contact can be made via Phone: 1442826774. For more detailed information, please visit their website at Website: bbowt.org.uk. The Trust’s commitment extends beyond simple preservation; they actively engage in habitat restoration, sustainable land management, and community outreach programs.

Specialties and Offerings

BBOWT distinguishes itself through a multifaceted approach to conservation. Their primary specialties include the management and preservation of nature reserves, the operation of a welcoming cafe, and a thoughtfully curated gift shop – both providing essential income streams to support their conservation efforts. These amenities are thoughtfully integrated into the reserves, enhancing the visitor experience while reinforcing the Trust’s mission.

• Nature Reserves: The core of BBOWT’s work lies in its diverse portfolio of nature reserves. These reserves range from former chalk quarries – like the one that forms the basis of the Tring reserve – to ancient woodlands and grasslands, each boasting a rich tapestry of flora and fauna.
• Educational Programs: BBOWT actively promotes environmental education through a variety of programs designed for schools, families, and the wider community.
• Volunteer Opportunities: The Trust relies heavily on volunteers, offering numerous opportunities for individuals to contribute to conservation efforts.
• Research and Monitoring: Ongoing research and monitoring programs provide crucial data to inform conservation strategies and assess the effectiveness of management practices.

Location and Accessibility

The Tring reserve, the Trust’s most prominent location, is strategically positioned within the beautiful Chiltern Hills, an Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty. Its history as a former chalk quarry offers a fascinating glimpse into the region’s geological past, and the reserve’s diverse habitats attract a wide range of wildlife. The location in Tring offers convenient access to major transport links, making it a relatively accessible destination. The site boasts on-site services to cater to visitor needs, ensuring a comfortable and enjoyable experience. Furthermore, the reserve is designed to be wheelchair accessible, with both an entrance and a parking lot specifically designated for visitors with mobility requirements. This commitment to inclusivity reflects BBOWT’s dedication to ensuring that everyone can appreciate and enjoy the natural world.

Visitor Experience and Feedback

Visitors consistently praise the Tring reserve and BBOWT’s overall efforts. The reserve offers a variety of easy walks, allowing visitors to explore the diverse habitats at their own pace. Observation huts are strategically placed throughout the site, providing excellent vantage points for birdwatchers and wildlife enthusiasts. The cafe and gift shop offer refreshments and souvenirs, supporting the Trust’s financial stability. A small donation is requested for parking, reflecting the cost of maintaining the facilities and managing the reserve. The overall atmosphere is one of tranquility and connection with nature. It’s a popular spot for a morning or afternoon escape, providing a welcome respite from the stresses of daily life. The combination of accessible trails, informative displays, and a welcoming atmosphere creates a truly rewarding experience for visitors of all ages and abilities.

Opinions and Ratings

The Berks, Bucks & Oxon Wildlife Trust consistently receives positive feedback from visitors. Currently, the Trust has 83 reviews on Google My Business, with an average opinion of 4.7/5. This high rating reflects the dedication of the staff and volunteers, the quality of the reserves, and the overall visitor experience. The positive reviews frequently highlight the beauty of the natural surroundings, the informative nature trails, and the welcoming atmosphere. Many visitors express appreciation for the Trust’s commitment to conservation and its efforts to educate the public about the importance of protecting the environment. The accessibility features, including wheelchair access, are also consistently praised.

Further Information

To learn more about BBOWT’s work, upcoming events, or to make a donation, we encourage you to visit their website at bbowt.org.uk. You can also contact them directly by phone at Phone: 1442826774. The Trust’s dedicated team is always happy to answer your questions and provide assistance.

👍 Reviews of Berks, Bucks & Oxon Wildlife Trust

Graham C.

5/5

This is a nature reserve that used to be a chalk quarry. There are pleasant easy walks around the sight with lots of local plant, insect and birds to observe. There are observation huts for birdwatchers and a cafe and shop. It is free, but requests a donation for parking. This is a lovely way to spend a morning or afternoon.

robert R.

5/5

This is only the second time we’ve been there but the place is beautiful. Natural and peaceful and so much more than these photo convey. We only walked part way round but from the previous visit there’s the gardens to visit too. Car park, facilities and nice friendly staff. Highly recommend.

A R.

5/5

College Lake is an old chalk pit with a circular walk arround it. There are lots of hides and viewing points to see birds on the lakes. There are also a number of interesting artifacts scatteted about including old excavation equipment. To the east of the site are wild gardens, historical exhabitions and learning facilities. Their is a large car park and reception building with shops, toilets and small resturaunt. Allow 1 hour to walk around the lake. Stay about 2 hours. Enterance fee about £4.

Elfthryth

4/5

Nice place but very restricted movement. Can't really get close to the water at all.

Stephanie H.

5/5

Really accessible and lovely and open. Lots of wildlife to see

John W.

5/5

Well managed old gravel pit with diverse habitats for wildlife there are bird hides along the walk round which is about 2 miles. The visitor centre has a cafe and shop, the volunteers welcoming and knowledgeable.

Andy C.

4/5

Great place to visit, as got two boys that love nature and being out. Currently having to use a wheelchair and a buggy and able to access all around. Food here is a bit on the pricey side but do cater for picnics too so all good.

Jayne

5/5

Lovely walk around the lake. Butterflies, Damsel and Dragon flies lots of wild flowers. Big Doe ran across the path in front of us. And of course birds to see. Good cafe and shop plenty of seating .