Brackhill Fen

Downs, Moorland in Huntingdonshire Huntingdonshire

England

Brackhill Fen

Old Bedford Barrier Bank The northwest side of the Ouse Washes, which are doing their job of holding excess water from the Great Ouse and the low-lying Fens. — Old Bedford Barrier Bank Credit: Hugh Venables

Brackhill Fen is a picturesque nature reserve located in Huntingdonshire, an administrative county in the eastern part of England. Known for its diverse landscape, the fen encompasses a combination of downs and moorland, offering visitors a unique and varied experience.

Covering an area of approximately 100 hectares, Brackhill Fen is home to a wide range of flora and fauna. The site boasts a rich variety of plant species, including fen orchids, marsh marigolds, and common reed, creating a vibrant and colorful environment. These wetland plants thrive in the fen's damp and marshy conditions, attracting a myriad of insects, birds, and small mammals.

The fen's downs are characterized by rolling hills and open grassland, providing a contrasting habitat to the wetland areas. Visitors can enjoy breathtaking views from the higher elevations and observe species such as skylarks and meadow pipits, which are commonly found in these upland regions.

Moorland can also be found within Brackhill Fen, offering a rugged and wild aspect to the reserve. This type of landscape is characterized by expanses of heather and peat, creating a dramatic and atmospheric setting. The moorland is home to species such as curlews and red grouse, which thrive in this harsh environment.

Brackhill Fen is a haven for nature enthusiasts and offers various walking trails and observation points to explore the diverse habitats. The site is managed by a local conservation organization, ensuring the preservation of this unique ecosystem for future generations to enjoy.

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Brackhill Fen Images

Images are sourced within 2km of 52.375924/0.033614732 or Grid Reference TL3877. Thanks to Geograph Open Source API. All images are credited.

Old Bedford Barrier Bank

The northwest side of the Ouse Washes, which are doing their job of holding excess water from the Great Ouse and the low-lying Fens.

Hugh Venables

Swan on the Counter Drain

Looking away from the Ouse Washes from the Old Bedford Barrier Bank.

Hugh Venables

Old Bedford Barrier Bank

See TL4076 : Old Bedford Barrier Bank for a winter view. In summer the washes are wet marsh and grazing.

Hugh Venables

Counterwash and Sutton Fen

Looking down from the bank of the Ouse Washes.

Hugh Venables

Flooded hedgerow

This amount of water on the washes in May means many ground nesting birds can't breed, often having their nest inundated. It is unfortunately getting more common.

Hugh Venables