
Prestwick Carr
Know before you go
Dogs
When to visit
Opening times
Not applicable as there is no public access.Best time to visit
Not applicable as there is no public access.About the reserve
Part of the site has Site of Special Scientific Interest (SSSI) status and Local Wildlife Site designations but the section managed by the Trust lies to the south of this. The Carr has long been an inspiration for naturalists; in the 18th and 19th centuries it was seen as a wild area close to the city. Since then, drainage and farming has altered the area but it still retains a level of wilderness within hearing range of Newcastle Airport.
It is particularly important as a relic of lowland raised mire (one of the rarest habitats in the world and one of only a handful left in the UK). It plays an important part in alleviating flood risk to the surrounding areas but holding water at times of heavy rain and in helping improve water quality. It is also an important connecting link between local wildlife habitats.
The site core of the site is owned by the Ministry of Defence. NWT manages a large portion of the wet grassland to the south of this area. The grassland is used by waders and is being managed to encourage breeding. Barn owls and short-eared owls are occasionally seen quartering the ground. The wet fields to the south of the Carr are managed by cutting rushes and grazing. The Trust is looking at ways to further enhance the area for wildlife. The site has no access but can be observed from surrounding roads and a viewing platform that gives a slightly elevated view over the area.