Foxcote Reservoir Nature Reserve

Foxcote Reservoir nature reserve is a peaceful area of Buckinghamshire, situated in a rolling landscape of arable fields, pasture, and woodland.

Part of a larger Site of Special Scientific Interest, the 34 hectare reserve was created in 1956 by damming a small tributary of the River Ouse. Managed by the Berkshire, Buckinghamshire, and Oxfordshire Wildlife Trust the reservoir has been carefully managed to provide a habitat for insects and aquatic plants.

During the winter months it is visited by hundreds of wintering waterfowl including coots, wigeon, tufted ducks, goldeneyes, goosanders, teal, shovelers, pochards, Bewick’s swans, and occasionally pintails. In the spring great-crested grebes can be spotted performing courtship dances, shaking their heads, diving, and fluffing out their plumage, while swimming breast-to-breast.

Although quieter in the summer, the insects provide food for many species of birds such as reed warblers and reed buntings who arrive to build their nests in the reedbeds. Look out too for kingfishers and grey wagtails along the water’s edge, as well as hobbies flying overhead.

There is a gently sloping path and wooden boardwalk that takes visitors to a bird hide which offers wonderful views across the site. In dry weather this is suitable for pushchairs and wheelchairs.

Please note, dogs are not allowed on Foxcote Reservoir. Parking is available in the lay-by opposite the entrance.