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Lewes Railway Land

East Sussex  >  United Kingdom

This urban wildlife haven can be found in the heart of Lewes, just off Cliffe High Street and close to the train station.

Added* by Louise Drake
Most recent update 24 aprilie 2025
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Description

Lewes Railway Land Nature Reserve is a peaceful 25-acre site near Lewes station, full of wildlife and history. Once a railway goods yard, it’s now a mix of wet willow woodland, reedbeds, meadows, riverbank, and scrub. It’s a great spot for birdwatching year-round. In spring and summer, you might see reed warblers and Drepnea neagră, while in autumn and winter, Sturzul viilor, Cocoșar and Becațină comună are regular visitors.

What makes it special is the variety of habitats so close to town, offering a quiet, scenic place to walk, watch wildlife, and enjoy nature.

Details

Access

Lewes Railway Land is in central Lewes, just a 5-minute walk from Lewes train station (1). The main entrance is at the end of Railway Lane, off South Street. No parking on-site, but public car parks like Southover Grange and Phoenix Causeway are nearby. Press P on the map for directions to a car park. By train is the most easy and closest option. By bus: Buses to Lewes stop within walking distance.

The area is best explored on foot. Paths and boardwalks take you through woodlands, meadows, and along the river. Allow around 1–2 hours for a relaxed visit.

Terrain and Habitat

Forest , Scattered trees and bushes , Wetland , Pond , River , Reedbeds , City/village

Conditions

Flat , Slippery

Circular trail

Yes

Is a telescope useful?

Can be useful

Good birding season

All year round

Best time to visit

Spring

Route

Narrow trail , Wide path

Difficulty walking trail

Easy

Accessible by

Foot , Bicycle

Birdwatching hide / platform

Yes

Extra info

Hide is being revamped currently (April 2025).

View other birding spots in the area that are published on Birdingplaces

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