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Discover nature reserves - Wensum local nature reserve
Mile Cross Marsh
Nestled beside the renowned Sweet Briar Marsh - designated a Site of Special Scientific Interest (SSSI) - Mile Cross Marsh offers a tranquil blend of fen and damp grassland habitats. Years ago, a local resident created a pond that now serves as a seasonal haven for breeding frogs each spring. Crisscrossed by dykes, including a storm drain that occasionally carries foul water, the marsh remains a vital ecological corridor.
Wildlife highlights
- frogs and toads (especially in spring)
- water voles (historically recorded)
- orchids and other fen flora
Access tip
Often used as a scenic shortcut between Marriott’s Way and the River Walk, this area is perfect for a peaceful stroll or a nature-spotting detour.
Sycamore Crescent
Running alongside the River Wensum, Sycamore Crescent is a slender stretch of mature woodland that feels like a secret forest trail. Towering beech and oak trees form a lush canopy, while elm and sycamore fill the under-storey. The forest floor bursts into color with red campion and the occasional bluebell, especially in spring.
Flora to look for
- red campion
- bluebells
- a variety of native woodland plants
Access tip
Reach this serene woodland via a charming wooden bridge over the River Wensum. Informal paths invite quiet exploration and riverside reflection.
