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Marsland Nature Reserve - Butterflies

Marsland is a large reserve situated on the border of Devon and Cornwall. Extending several miles inland from the dramatic coastline, it is an exceptionally diverse nature reserve consisting largely of a wooded, steep-sided valley, along with coastal heath and grassland, meadows, woodland glades, bracken-covered slopes and small streams and ponds.

Highlights: The reserve is a haven for some of the UK's rarest butterflies, particularly the small pearl-bordered fritillary, and the pearl-bordered fritillaryand 34 different species have been recorded here. Dormice and otters are both present, and at certain times of year it is rich in wild flowers and the woodlands are alive with birds.

Location and access:  

Turn off A39 at Crimp, sign-posted to CSOS Morwenstow/Riding stables. After 3.5 kms turn right at shop for Gooseham and the riding stables. Drive a further 2kms into Gooseham, turn left just before the riding stables and go past the farm at West Gooseham. At the T-junction turn right and carry on for a further 1km until the road bends sharply to the left.

There is limited parking on the track to the right. Parking elsewhere is not possible without obstructing access.

Grid reference SS 217 169

This site can also be accessed via the South West Coast Path.

These maps are intended as a guideline only; you must check the exact location of the reserve yourself. Wildlife Extra assumes no responsibility for the accuracy or usefulness of the information on this website.