Shapwick Reserve provides traditional hay meadows, secret waterways and sweeping vistas across the Somerset Levels to Glastonbury Tor.
(Header image - Marsh Harrier copyright Barry Edwards)
Helping to protect and preserve the unique wildlife and habitats found at Shapwick Moor
Nestled in the Somerset Wetlands National Nature Reserve, Shapwick Moor is part of a fascinating working landscape celebrated for its rich wildlife, heritage and culture. The Hawk and Owl Trust manage this former arable farmland for the benefit of birds of prey and other wildlife.
A level track leads you from the main car park deeper into the reserve. There are two hides which are the perfect places to spot kestrels, barn owls and marsh harriers.
The Badger Sett hide is a small shepherd’s hut-style hide with step free access located 0.3 miles from the car park along the main track. The Barbara Handley hide is a large hide with step free access located 0.8 miles along the main track and down towards our neighbouring reserve, Natural England’s Shapwick Heath.
There are three benches on the reserve for you to sit back and enjoy the wildlife. The reserve has a peaceful, ‘off-the beaten track’ feel to it where you can escape everyday stresses and enjoy a traditional Somerset landscape.
(Barn Owl image copyright Christopher Marner)
Become a supporter of Shapwick Moor.
As part of your membership in Hawk and Owl Trust, you can choose to become a Supporter of Shapwick Moor NNR (SOS). By joining our supporters you are ensuring that any membership monies, donations etc that you make will be directed in their entirety to Shapwick Moor Reserve.
The Supporters were set up to contribute directly to the conservation and future of Shapwick Moor Nature Reserve.
As a Supporter, you will receive information about special events, talks and activities that are taking place, and will receive a twice-yearly newsletter, plus the members Peregrine Magazine.
You will also have the opportunity to get involved in practical conservation work on the reserve: the provision of workshops and other infrastructure on the reserve has all been funded by the Supporters in the past.
Click here for Membership / Support details
We are also having lots of issues with dog mess at the moment so perhaps a bit for dog walkers i.e. “Four-legged friends are welcome but must be kept under close control to protect livestock and wildlife. There are no dog bins available on the reserve so we politely ask you dispose of dog waste at home”.
(Sparrowhawk image copyright Robert Sheldon)
Volunteers form an important part of the work of the Trust and what it achieves.
The Trust runs regular work parties at Shapwick Moor, with everything from ditch and scrub clearance to building work.
They need people from a whole range of backgrounds and with different skills to offer so please do get in touch with them if you are interested in becoming part of the team.
They are also looking for people to help monitor the wildlife living on the reserve.
You don’t need to be an expert, they can support you to learn new skills, spend time amongst nature and have fun along the way!
Company, exercise, a chance to learn new skills, fun, and the knowledge that you are helping Hawk and Owl Trust and the wildlife that lives on our reserves are all part of the package!