Large Blue Butterfly on flower
Peter Cairns

Nature reserves

Most people in Kent live within a few miles of a Kent Wildlife Trust nature reserve. From ancient woodlands to meadows and wetlands, they’re just waiting to be explored.

Our nature reserves

We have three types of nature reserve - flagships, hidden gems and wildlife arks. 

Click below to explore. 

oare marshes sunrise
N Morley

Our Flagship Nature Reserves

Information page

Kent Wildlife Trust manages over 80 nature reserves across the county, boasting a diverse range of habitats and species. To help you know where to start, we've assembled some of our top recommended reserves to visit.

Common Blue butterfly male
Male Common Blue ©Zsuzsanna Bird

Wildlife Ark Nature Reserves

Information page

Our Wildlife Ark sites play a crucial role in supporting diverse wildlife, acting as vital sanctuaries where various species can thrive. While these areas may not always offer extensive public access, they are carefully managed to preserve their…

Queendown Warren, photo by Selwyn Dennis
Queendown Warren, photo by Selwyn Dennis

Our Hidden Gem Nature Reserves

Information page

These hidden gems experience low public pressure and, in some cases, may have no public access at all. These sites prioritise wildlife over public recreation and showcase excellent habitat management practices. Many of them exemplify our "wilding"…

A black and white striped badger facing the camera in morning sunlight.
Andrew Parkinson

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