The reserve sits on the site of a former Second World War airfield, RAF Great Orton.
Large sections of the current landscape were reclaimed from former runways and taxiways.
The reserve is home to a colony of the rare Small Blue butterfly.
The site features a specific 'Dragonfly Pond' designed to attract various Odonata species.
Conservation efforts include the protection of the Great Crested Newt in the reserve's numerous ponds.
The site hosts a permanent orienteering course available for public use.
Watchtree Nature Reserve is a former airfield transformed into a 205-acre mosaic of wetland, woodland, and wildflower meadows. It is managed as a charitable trust focused on biodiversity, conservation, and public education. The reserve features a network of surfaced tracks suitable for cycling, wheelchair access, and walking. It serves as an important site for ground-nesting birds, amphibians, and various butterfly species. Bird hides are situated throughout the property to facilitate observation of native and migratory waterfowl. The site includes a dedicated cycle hire facility and an on-site cafe for visitors. It is located in the Solway Plain, providing a distinct lowland habitat in Cumbria.
The elevated view from the main bird hide overlooking the largest wetland basin.
Bring binoculars as the bird hides are strategically placed for wildlife viewing.
Check the weather forecast, as the open airfield landscape provides little shelter from high winds.
Wear sturdy, waterproof footwear if venturing onto the unsurfaced trails during wetter seasons.
Attempting to stray from marked paths into protected conservation zones.
Cafe and visitor facilities have seasonal operating patterns; check local updates for bank holiday closures.
Keep dogs on a lead in sensitive conservation areas; follow the Countryside Code; do not disturb nesting birds.
