FOOD FOR THOUGHT
We live in an increasingly populated country, but there are still areas of wilderness to be found. Here’s our pick of wild places to explore – and our favourite recipes to enjoy on the way
WILDEST COUNTRYSIDE
Set your compass for some of the country’s loveliest nature reserves and wildlife walks. Abundant with flora and fauna, these special places are perfect summer escapes…
● LEDSTON LUCK, WEST YORKSHIRE
This beautifully transformed former coal mine is a real treat. The grassland is awash with wildflowers, including hundreds of orchids (from common-spotted to bee).
Woodpeckers and willow tits flit in the trees; herons, coots and moorhens enjoy the lake. Just hop on a bus from Leeds city centre.
● DRUMBURGH MOSS, CUMBRIA
Sun-worshipping adders and common lizards bask here, ponies keep the shrubland around the raised mire area in good order, and bog-loving plants thrive in the protected wetlands. Buses run from Carlisle to Bowness-on-Solway and Anthorn.
● ALVERSTONE MEAD, ISLE OF WIGHT
These woodland, wetland and wildflower meadows are home to a wonderful variety of creatures, including tufty-eared red squirrels. Enjoy the peace along the Eastern Yar River, keeping an eye out for a flash of kingfisher blue. Nearest train station is at Sandown.
● NORTH WARREN, SUFFOLK
Swerve the crowds at pretty Aldeburgh and head to this small RSPB (Royal Society for the Protection of Birds) reserve – a peaceful patchwork of grazing marshes, reedbeds, heathland and woodland. Marsh harriers roost here, hobby falcons hunt dragonflies, and butterflies enjoy the rare plants.
