Experience the beauty of Sussex’s nature from the comfort of your couch.

The inaugural week to honor national nature reserves is currently taking place, inviting everyone to venture out and discover nature in one of the 9 primary NNRs scattered throughout Sussex.

Nature reserves offer a rich tapestry of flora, fauna, and geological marvels, housing over 17,000 species across 106,000 hectares of protected land throughout England, which constitutes roughly 0.7% of the nation’s land area.

National Nature Reserves Week is occurring from May 20 to May 29, featuring a series of events designed to encourage residents and visitors to appreciate nature more deeply.

East Sussex is home to 4 NNRs: Castle Hill in Brighton, Lullington Heath near Hastings, Lewes Downs, and Pevensey Levels.

In West Sussex, one of the national nature reserves is reaching out to individuals who are unable to visit but desire to experience the protected habitat virtually.

Kingley Vale was among the initial NNRs established back in 1952. Recently, it has launched a virtual tour that allows viewers to immerse themselves in breathtaking views of the south coast extending to the Isle of Wight, showcasing trees believed to be some of the oldest living organisms in Britain, estimated at 500 years old.

Visitors can also get an up-close look at the Iron Age forts within the reserve. Of course, Kingley Vale is open for in-person visits, located at West Stoke, northwest of Chichester.

If you choose to visit, consider participating in a reptile walk to commemorate NNR Week. This complimentary event on Sunday, May 28, will explore the local inhabitants, including adders, slow worms, and common lizards, teaching you how to identify reptiles while discovering hidden gems within Kingley Vale.

The second national nature reserve in West Sussex is Ebernoe Common, situated north of Petworth and managed by Sussex Wildlife Trust.

Ebernoe is a splendid, dense ancient woodland, featuring smaller areas of scrub and grassland, showcasing beautiful mature oak and beech trees, tranquil woodland paths, a quaint village pub, and a lily-covered lake. Rich in history and wildlife, it offers much to explore.

Marian Spain, Chief Executive of Natural England, stated:

“I am thrilled to collaborate with our partners to inaugurate National Nature Reserves Week – a wonderful opportunity for everyone to celebrate England’s extraordinary wildlife and natural environments.

“For decades, national nature reserves have been essential in preserving diverse species of plants and animals and have provided invaluable outdoor spaces for research, education, and engagement with our natural heritage.

“Whether you are visiting us for the first time or it’s part of your regular routine, I invite all to explore one of the 221 national nature reserves across the country and discover what they have to offer.”

This new annual 10-day celebration aims to increase awareness of the vital role these reserves play in combating climate change, fostering nature recovery, and safeguarding endangered species.

The initiative seeks to inspire a new generation of nature advocates and coincides with Natural England celebrating the coronation with a new ‘King’s Series’ of 25 NNR declarations over the next five years, aimed at supporting nature recovery and aligning with the Government’s Environmental Improvement Plan.

This announcement follows Natural England celebrating 70 years since the declaration of the first NNRs last year. Since their establishment, England’s national nature reserves have remained key in safeguarding nature and have become integral to an expanding nature recovery network, providing crucial habitats for various species of animals, birds, and plants.

Research indicates that NNRs managed by Natural England provide tremendous value, offering a broad range of economic, environmental, and societal benefits amounting to £36 million.

A comprehensive list of national nature reserves in East and West Sussex, as well as the wider South East region, can be found at: https://www.gov.uk/government/collections/national-nature-reserves-in-england#london-and-the-south-east-nnrs

Kingley Vale National Nature Reserve reptile walk with Sussex Amphibian and Reptile Group
Join in the hunt for local reptiles.
This free event will feature experts from the Sussex Amphibian and Reptile Group as they guide you in identifying adders, slow worms, and common lizards. It’s a fantastic opportunity to learn about our native reptiles while exploring Kingley Vale away from the usual paths.
Sunday, May 28, from 2pm to 5pm.
Free, but booking is required through Julian@sxargevents@gmail.com.