Dubwath Silver Meadows Nature Reserve

Dubwath Silver Meadows is a wetland nature reserve. It used to be part of Bassenthwaite Lake and was created by the Heritage Lottery-funded Bassenthwaite Reflections programme.

It is seven hectares of land with habitats for flora and fauna, paths, and viewing points. The area also has an important role for the lake, acting as a sort of sponge for flood control and filtering silt and nutrients to protect the water quality of the lake.

Dubwath Silver Meadows Nature Reserve is home to several different types of wetland habitats, including:

• Mire
• Swamp
• Wet woodland
• Hay meadow
• Dry woodland
• Hedgerows

Along the stone paths and boardwalk, there are viewing points and hides where you can stop and observe the plants and wildlife. The hides have been built using traditional methods by volunteers from local materials found in woodlands and reed beds.

Silver Meadows Nature Reserve has four different habitats, all close to each other, so you’ll be able to see a variety of plants and animals. When it comes to wildlife, you might see birds, insects, and mammals, including:

• Osprey
• Grasshopper warbler
• Curlew
• Geese
• Reed bunting
• Meadow pipit
• Small Pearl-bordered Fritillary butterfly
• Moths
• Beetles
• Roe deer
• Badgers
• Bats
• Red squirrel
• Voles
• Mice

Yes, Dubwath Silver Meadows is dog friendly. Be sure to keep your dog on a lead and at all times and clean up after them. Bins are available for dog litter.

Yes, the boardwalk at Dubwath Silver Meadows provides access for wheelchair users and those with mobility issues. It is also suitable for pushchairs. Mobility scooters must be class 2 or 3. The boardwalks are environmentally friendly and made from recycled plastic bottles.

Although there are no refreshment facilities at Dubwath Silver Meadows Nature Reserve itself, you can purchase food and drink nearby at Bassenthwaite Lake Station, just a stone’s throw away. Dine on board a replica of the Orient Express train which was featured in the film Murder on the Orient Express!

The café serves breakfast and lunch with a variety of sandwiches, wraps, and light bites. There are also hot and cold drinks available, including tea, coffee, milkshakes, and smoothies. You can even indulge in a glass of wine if you fancy.

The Pheasant Inn is also nearby, offering a cosy spot to indulge in some pub grub. A seasonal menu using fresh local produce is available, and dishes include hearty classics like fish and chips, sausage and mash, and burgers.

Alternatively, you could bring a picnic with you for dining al fresco at Dubwath Silver Meadows Nature Reserve. Make use of YHA Keswick’s well-equipped self-catering kitchen to prepare some sandwiches and snacks. There are plenty of places to sit and eat with a view over the wetland habitats.