Easily accessed from Hungerford town centre is this oasis of calm brimming with wildlife
With the chalk stream of the River Dun winding gently through it and divided by the Kennet and Avon Canal, Freeman’s Marsh has an abundance of wildlife making it a worthwhile place to visit throughout the year – but it can get wet under-welly in winter!
Colourful wetland wildflowers include yellow iris, southern marsh-orchid and marsh marigolds throughout spring and summer and there are records of over 120 different bird species including heron, kingfisher, little grebe and water rails. And if you are really, really lucky you might catch a glimpse of a water vole – the area is one of the last remaining strongholds of this endangered mammal.
Due to its proximity to Hungerford town centre, there is plenty of public transport options as well as car parking nearby. You can access the site via the swing bridge close to the church.
Please check for seasonal restrictions asking you to keep dogs on leads between March and August to protect fragile wildlife. The site is owned and managed by the Town & Manor of Hungerford.
Further Information
Grid Reference: SU331686
What3Words: blown.humble.ashes
Nearest Postcode: RG17 0JB