Our top picks for getting outdoors this spring
Getting outdoors is great for our wellbeing. Earth Trust’s green spaces are free to access and open 365 days a year for you to enjoy. So we thought we’d share our top things to see at these special places at this time of year so you can plan your next visit.
1. Look out for frog and toad spawn
You’ll need to look just below the surface of the water in ponds and streams, especially amongst reeds by the water’s edge. Our wardens have already spotted some this year in the ponds at Abbey Fishponds, Little Wittenham Wood, and Wallingford Castle Meadows.
What’s the difference between frogspawn and toadspawn? Frogs lay a cluster of jelly-like eggs, whereas toadspawn comes in long ribbons.
2. See the sensational snake’s-head fritillaries (Fritillaria meleagris)
This beautiful species is only found in a handful of meadows in Southern England and the Midlands, but the numbers flowering at Wallingford Castle Meadows at the moment suggest it’s doing well here.
The orchids will soon be out at Mowbray Fields too, a site nestled in the heart of Didcot and well worth a visit.
3. Take a walk in the woods.
Whether you want to listen to the birds or practice your den building skills, our woodlands have got something for everyone.
For a gentler stroll try Neptune Wood, to practise your tree ID skills visit Broad Arboretum, and for a wildlife wander we recommend Little Wittenham Wood our fabulous ancient woodland which has a little bit of everything.
4. Go water-side
While it’s probably still a little chilly for picnics, if you fancy a walk along the water then you could try Riverside Meadows, Thrupp Lake or along the River of Life trails.
Kingfishers can be seen at both of these sites and are easier to spot at this time of year before the leaves completely grow back on the trees.
5. Enjoy a fabulous panoramic view
Where better to feel the wind on your face, take a deep breath of fresh air and truly embrace the outdoors than our iconic Wittenham Clumps.
Climb to the top and you’re rewarded with a spectacular view across the beautiful Oxfordshire landscape. You’re sure to feel on top of the world!
You can find information on all of our places here, and if you do visit over the next few weeks then please keep in touch and share your spring photos with us on Facebook, Twitter and Instagram.
If you would like to support Earth Trust then please consider making a donation to help look after these amazing green spaces. Thank you.