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Branton Lakes Nature Reserve

Located close to the hamlet of Branton, Branton Lakes Nature Reserve is one the Breamish Valley’s best kept secrets, providing 29 hectares of diverse habitat for numerous species of plants, birds and other wildlife.

The site centres on two lakes with surrounding grassland for grazing animals and woodland pasture fringing the site. There are also shingle beds, scrapes for nesting birds and areas of standing water to observe the amazing insect life. A footpath runs all around the nature reserve and there is also a bird hide at the west lake with disabled access along a suitable path leading from the car park.

To find this hidden paradise, travel about 0.5 miles north of Powburn on theA697, turn west towards Branton. After approximately 0.75 miles you’ll see a metal gate on your right that leads to the car park.

For more information visit – https://www.breamishvalley.com/explore/branton-nature-conservation-area/

A couple in a bird hide at Branton lakes
A couple in a birdhide at Branton lakes
A close up of cotton grass
Branton Lakes Nature Reserve

Getting there

Branton Lakes are just off the A697, about 9 miles south of Wooler and about 23 miles north of Morpeth. Coming from the south, drive through Powburn village past the garage, and turn left at the crossroads, on the road signposted Fawdon, Branton.

Coming from the north, this road is on the right, just past the 30 signs as you enter Powburn village. Drive along this road, past the entrance to the Caravan club park. The road takes a couple of bends, then you will see another road joining on the left. The car park entrance is about 20 yards on the right past this road junction