Calvert Jubilee, Bucks

Calvert Jubilee is always a good spot to visit in winter. There are large numbers of ducks on the lake and other interesting birds like little grebe and great crested grebe to look out for. You might be lucky enough to see the great crested grebes doing their courtship dance out on the water, mirroring each other's movements. 

You should also see large flocks of lapwing and might spot a bittern tucked away in the reeds. 

Access: Flat; mostly bumpy but there is a flat surfaced path leading to the hide; gate, steps, bridges

Calvert Jubilee

Inkpen Crocus Field, Berks

We can never predict exactly when but coming soon is Britain's largest wild display of spring crocuses. From late February to early April, Inkpen Crocus Field in West Berkshire should be awash with the purple and white of more than 400,000 blooms. Keep an eye on our social media channels for the latest news about the crocuses.

One local legend has it that it was the 12th-century Crusaders who brought them back from central Europe. Others believe that they are garden escapees that have established themselves over the last 200 years. Whatever their true origin, the sight is a true spectacle.

Access: Sloping; rough underfoot, wet patches in winter; kissing gate

Inkpen Crocus Field

Letcombe Valley, Oxon

A lovely mix of chalk stream, woodland and chalk grassland creates a tranquil haven for wildlife and local people. Look out for winter and early spring flowers in the small remnants of ancient woodland here.

The Letcombe Brook is a rare habitat - there are very few chalk streams in Oxfordshire and only 161 UK-wide. If you're lucky, you may see the blue flash of a kingfisher darting past as you walk along the stream.

Access: 30% surfaced paths; some moderate slopes unsurfaced; steps, kissing gates

Letcombe Valley

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Nature Discovery Centre, Berks

Take a stroll around the lake at the Nature Discovery Centre to look at the waterbirds, pop into the new bird hides and round off your visit with a hot drink in the cafe.

There are two new bird hides outside, one overlooking the lake and one overlooking the woodland bird feeders, and a third 'hide in the sky' inside the visitor centre - perfect for those chilly days! A great place for a visit during half-term.

Access: Flat and level around the lake; a mobility Tramper vehicle is available to borrow free of charge on a first come, first served basis - click here to book online or call 01635 874381 for same-day reservations.

Nature Discovery Centre

Upper Ray Meadows, Bucks

Gallows Bridge Farm, part of the vast Upper Ray Meadows nature reserve on the Bucks/Oxon border, is a great spot to visit during the winter months. The site attracts large numbers of ducks, including wigeon and teal, and waders such as lapwing and golden plover.

There is also lots of activity in the hedgerows where birds like goldcrest, bullfinch and siskin will come to feed. Look out for large flocks of redwing and fieldfare, too and keep an eye open for hunting raptors including kestrel and peregrine.

The seasonal hide is open at this time of year and has good views of the scrapes and pools in the main meadow where you can see plenty of different birds.

Access: Flat; uneven ground, floods in winter; soft after rain; gates. Gallows Bridge Farm bird hides are accessible with a robust wheelchair.

Upper Ray Meadows

Warburg Nature Reserve, Oxon

A hidden wildlife gem nestling in the Chiltern Hills, rich in wildlife that will lift your spirits whatever the season. High up in the Chilterns Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty, Warburg Nature Reserve is a remote and magnificent place, rich in exciting plants and animals all through the year.

The flower-rich grasslands in the valley bottom give way to extensive woodlands rising up the valley sides. At this time of year spring flowers are starting to bloom, look out for the carpets of snowdrops.

Access: Variable, mostly steep paths and loose flint, flat grassy path; muddy in valley bottom after rain; benches.

A mobility Tramper vehicle may be available, please email hughweldon@bbowt.org.uk or call 07541 690655 before visiting to book in advance.

Warburg Nature Reserve

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