About the reserve

This large expanse of water is a valuable refuge for waterfowl, including blacknecked grebe. An important site for large numbers of wintering ducks, particularly mallard, shoveler, teal, wigeon and goldeneye. The area is of national importance for its summer populations of pochard, tufted duck and common tern. The marginal vegetation supports many breeding bird species such as reed bunting and sedge warbler. Around the margins of the reservoir are large marshy areas where many species of marsh plants flourish, including great reedmace, reed canary grass, phragmites and various sedges.

Seasonal Highlights
Spring: Blackcap, black-necked grebe, orange tip, reed bunting.
Summer: Brown argus, common pipistrelle, marbled white, migrant hawker, meadow brown.
Autumn/ Winter: Goldeneye, goosander, pochard, smew, wigeon.

Hilfield Park Reservoir is owned by Affinity Water and managed by the Trust.

Access for Trust members only

Please note: the Trust's offices remain closed to visitors and we are therefore currently unable to issue site keys to members. 

Whilst this reserve is member-only access, there is a viewing platform on the east side of the reserve which is accessible via Hogg lane, and along a public footpath. Remember to wear wellies in the muddy season and stick to the path.