Branton lakes
Situated 0.5 miles north of Powburn on the A697, turn west towards Branton. After approximately 0.75 miles you’ll see a metal gate on your right that leads to a car park.
Close to the River Breamish
The reserve occupies a area of 29 hectares and is a former sand and gravel quarry close to the River Breamish. There are two freshwater lakes with surrounding grassland for grazing animals and woodland pasture fringing the site. Shingle beds, scrapes for nesting birds and areas of standing water complete the picture. There is also a bird hide at the west lake with disabled access along a suitable path leading from the car park.
Common redpoll, skylark, kingfisher, great-crested grebe and other wildfowl. Rarities include great-white egret, black-necked grebe and red-crested pochard.
Birds you may hear at Branton Lakes
A site of interest all year but at It's best visited in April / May where songbirds will be vocal and therefore easier to see. Listen for the beautifully descending song of the willow warbler and the short plaintive call of common sandpiper.
