Barton Meadows Nature Reserve

Yellowhammer

© Amy Lewis

Barton Meadows Nature Reserve

Over 30 hectares of former agricultural land has become a flourishing wildflower haven, making it the perfect place for a relaxing walk.

Location

Courtenay Road or Andover Road
Winchester
Hampshire
SO23 7ER or SO22 6AX

OS Map Reference

SU479313 or SU482313
A static map of Barton Meadows Nature Reserve

Know before you go

Size
32 hectares
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Entry fee

Donations welcome
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Parking information

No public parking
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Walking trails

There is a 2.75 km circular path around the site. The path offers great views across the landscape.

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Access

There is an accessible 2.75 km circular path around the perimeter of the site, but the meadows themselves are not accessible. 

Train station: Winchester (1½ miles).

Bus stop: Stoke Road (½ mile) and School Lane (½ mile).

Dogs

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When to visit

Opening times

Open at all times.

Best time to visit

During the summer when the wildflowers are in bloom.

About the reserve

Barton Meadows was created as  part of the Kings Barton housing  development and sits proudly in the  heart of Winchester. Over 30 hectares of former agricultural land has become a flourishing wildflower haven, making it the perfect place for a relaxing walk.

Come and see

Barton Meadows is a significant achievement for the Trust in  its work to create, expand and join up wildlife habitats. This  nature reserve attracts local wildlife previously displaced by housing development.

With views over the rolling landscape, the reserve includes two large meadows surrounded by areas of rough grassland, hedgerow and trees.

The site provides the perfect environment for pollinating insects as well as feeding and nesting habitats for birds. Skylark, yellowhammer and linnet can be seen across the reserve alongside butterflies such as the marbled white.

The wildflower-rich chalk grassland is now home to the native species that were once widespread in the area, coming alive with bees and other invertebrates in the summer.

Barton Meadows is an important corridor for wildlife in Winchester. Its close proximity to Winnall Moors nature reserve creates a wider landscape in which wildlife can travel, contributing to a more joined-up network for nature. This site is managed in partnership with Winchester City Council.

Special features

•  In the summer, meander through the blooming wildflower meadows with traditional species such as birdsfoot trefoil, meadow buttercup, oxeye daisy and knapweed.

•  A circular path around the reserve, with locally produced benches positioned at perfect vantage points, provides the ideal setting for those wanting to relax in peaceful surroundings.

Contact us

Samuel Martin
Contact number: 01962 790 544

Location map

Support us

If you would like to help protect the wildlife at Barton Meadows nature reserve, join the Trust today or donate.

Support us