Within easy distance of Chester and Tarvin, Hockenhull Platts nature reserve sits beside the River Gowy and is a great place to enjoy a short stroll along the Mill Trail and over the quaint medieval bridges that traverse the reserve.
Home to several habitats including reedbed, a poplar plantation and wet grassland with scattered shallow pools the reserve is a great place to spot wintering wading birds such as snipe. The poplar plantation is sparse and its wet nature has created an unusual stand of common reed at the ground layer. The reserve is also rich in bird life, with over 64 species recorded, including summer-visiting warblers, including sedge warbler, grasshopper warbler and reed warbler. Otters have been recorded along the banks of the bordering River Gowy and a quiet approach to the river’s edge may just reward you with a fleeting glimpse of a passing kingfisher.
Hockenhull Platts is managed by agreement with the Grosvenor (Eaton) Estates.
2011-05-03 14:14
Walking information:
A public footpath runs through the centre of the reserve and along the river Gowy to the east, accessible from Platts Lane, Waverton. Please park with consideration for residents in the designated bays/layby. This allows viewing of the wetlands and meadows.
Please note: due to the presence of livestock and nesting birds during parts of the year, access to the grazing fields is by prior arrangement only, please contact the Trust to arrange a permit.
Grazing animals:
Grazing animals
Location type:
Wildlife or nature reserve