Blashford Lakes Nature Reserve near to Fordingbridge is open from 9am to 4.30pm Monday to Sunday. It is run by Hampshire Isle of Wight Wildlife Trust. You can sit in any of the six hides and watch the wildlife, particularly birds. There is plenty of woodland with paths to wander through and enjoy where you may see the Great Spotted Woodpecker.

The Blashford Lakes support many over-wintering wildfoul, including Goldeneye, Goosander and Bittern. Other woodland birds include Brambling, Redpoll and Siskin. In the summer you may see Kingfishers nesting on the reserve. There are also 25 species of Dragonfly darting from one place to another.

During the past hundred years the reserve has been farmland, a World War Two airbase, motor racing circuit, sand and gravel pits before being turned into the Blashford Lakes Nature Reserve. There is an education centre where you can discover all about the reserve as well as use the provided toilets.

There are five miles of flat waymarked paths which also links to the public footpath network. Guided walks and events are available throughout the year. The website is at Hampshire & Isle of Wight Wildlife Trust. For further information you can call 01425 472760 or email them on BlashfordLakes@hiwwt.org.uk

Eastleigh Coach Trips is run by Janina and David. Our aim is to provide enjoyable trips starting from Eastleigh, Hampshire, both day trips and longer tours to interesting places.