Langford Lakes Nature Reserve
About the Reserve
Langford Lakes is a great place to watch and learn about wildlife, especially birds, and has a relaxing atmosphere that appeals to all. The Reserve lies in a delightful setting in the heart of the Wylye valley in south Wiltshire, half way between Salisbury and Warminster.
The Reserve consists of three lakes and a half-mile stretch of the river Wylye, and covers more than 20 hectares. There are four bird-watching hides overlooking the lakes, providing good close views of the regular species of wildfowl. There are chances of rarities too, especially during the spring and autumn migrations.
Wildlife
Watch the video below of the wildlife of Langford Lakes in the snow in January 2010.
Ducks present all year round include Mallard (Anas platyrhynchos), Gadwall (Anas strepera), Tufted Duck (Aythya fuligula) and Pochard (Aythya ferina). As winter advances Shoveler (Anas clypeata) and Wigeon (Anas penelope) add to the growing ranks of the resident species, and there are occasional visits from other species of wildfowl.
Kingfisher (Alcedo atthis) are present throughout the year, as are Great Crested Grebe (Podiceps cristatus). Look out for the grebes’ remarkable courtship display in the spring. Common Tern (Sterna hirundo) bred for the first time in 2007 on artificial rafts, but none bred in 2008. Birds visiting on migration include waders, terns, and the Osprey (Pandion haliaetus). During the summer the reserve is brimming with other birds, as well as dragonflies, other insects and wetland wild flowers.
The river Wylye is home to the native Brown Trout (Salmo trutta) and Grayling (Thymallus thymallus) as well as other fish species, and invertebrates which the fish feed on. Otters (Lutra lutra) regularly use the river and lakes, and Water Vole (Arvicola terrestris) is seen regularly.
History and management
The lakes were created when gravel was excavated during the sixties and seventies. They later became a fishery, stocked with coarse fish and trout.
Since the Trust acquired the lakes in 2001, wetland habitats around the lakes have been enhanced, mainly to increase the extent of the inundation zone (between dry ground and open water). Islands, ponds and scrapes have also been created.
Structural enhancements have also been introduced into the river Wylye to improve diversity of currents and substrates, and ideal conditions for feeding and spawning fish.
Other information
Dogs are not allowed on the Reserve (except guide dogs).
Facilities: Four bird hides (with information), Visitor Centre, toilets, Education centre (can be hired for events), car parking, parking for coaches/minibuses (group visits by prior arrangement), dedicated parking for disabled visitors, cycle racks.
For enquiries: Call (01722) 792011. There are hard, level paths, making access easy for all abilities.
Opening times: Main gates open from 9.00am until dusk (pedestrian access from dawn).
Location: Just off the A36 Salisbury to Warminster road, follow the sign for The Langfords. In Steeple Langford turn into Duck Street. The Nature Reserve entrance is on the left-hand side, once you have crossed the river. Langford Lakes is 250 metres from National Cycle Network Route 24. Nearest bus stop is 500m in Steeple Langford – X4 bus service between Salisbury and Warminster. Grid reference SU037370. Post code SP3 4NH
Fishing:
Fly fishing: Day tickets are available for fishing on the river Wylye for wild Brown Trout and Grayling - catch and release only.
Coarse fishing: Coarse fishing is available through membership of the Langford Lakes Fishing Club, which is run by the Trust. Access for wheelchair anglers is available. For enquiries call (01722) 792011.