(c) Adam Chlebik
Saltmarsh Drive Open Space
Home to a beautiful old orchard that was recently restored by volunteers, Saltmarsh Drive Open Space (Longcross tip) is a patch of old farmland divided by small paths and rhines. Situated behind Lawrence Weston Community Farm, the site is a great place to explore on foot, taking time to spot birds and butterflies in summer and enjoying the silhouettes of trees and foraging for free food in winter. If you're very lucky you may even catch a glimpse of a water vole near one of the waterways, listen out for their iconic 'plop' sound as they enter the water.
Location: Situated behind Lawrence Weston Community Farm, Saltmarsh Drive Bristol Avon BS11 0NJ. Please park considerately.
Concerned about something at the site? You can report any issues directly to the landowner Bristol City Council here - Report a problem in a park or open space - bristol.gov.uk
Wild Cats (Wild City Action Team), Saltmarsh Drive Open Space, (c) Rosie Maple
Peacock Butterfly on Creeping Thistle, (c) Bob Coyle
Orchard Training Day, Saltmarsh Drive Open Space, (c) Rosie Maple
Saltmarsh Drive Open Space, Photography Workshop, (c) Chloe
Water vole, Lawrence Weston Moor, (c) Dave Hodson
Orchard Apples, (c) Ross Hoddinott/2020VISION
Male Bullfinch, (c) Vaughn Matthews
Goldfinch, (c) Amy Lewis
Get involved: The site currently does not have a 'Friends of Group'. If you'd like to get involved with caring for this site you can find out more about Bristol City Council's green spaces volunteering here or contact parkvolunteers@bristol.gov.uk.
On Facebook? Why not join the BS11 Wildlife Group for wildlife spots and nature-friendly ideas across the area.
Wildlife monitoring is a great way to support local wildlife sites! Find out more about wildlife monitoring and how it helps protect nature on our blog. You can also contact nature.parks@bristol.gov.uk for further support to monitor a range of species including water voles, and explore options for wildlife monitoring across the city here.
Get the most from your visit with downloadable maps and resources below:
Saltmarsh Drive Open Space Map (c) Rebecca Howard
Team Wilder, Illustration by Hannah Bunn
Want to do something for nature in your community? Find top tips, advice, and resources from people doing fantastic things for people and wildlife across the region as part of Team Wilder here