Billingside Meadows

UK Wildlife Trusts

Billingside Meadows is a diverse nature reserve located in the Derwent Valley, covering 23 hectares of restored former opencast coal mine and designated as a Local Wildlife Site. The reserve features a mosaic of habitats, including open neutral grassland, scrub, and ponds, providing essential resources for various wildlife. Visitors can enjoy views of nearby Chopwell Meadows and Milkwellburn Wood on clear days, making it a picturesque spot for nature enthusiasts. Wildlife highlights at Billingside Meadows include a variety of species, particularly during the summer months when meadow pipits, skylarks, and lapwings are active. Notable sightings include syrphus and helophilus pendulus, which peak in September, with optimal observation times around 01:00. The reserve's rich flora, such as mugwort and devil’s bit scabious, also contributes to its ecological diversity, making it a rewarding destination for wildlife watchers throughout the year.

Managed by

UK Wildlife Trusts

Location

DH9 9ER