Fenn's, Whixall and Bettisfield Mosses National Nature Reserve Adventures

Fenn's, Whixall and Bettisfield Mosses National Nature Reserve is located on the border between England and Wales, primarily in Shropshire, England, with parts extending into Wrexham County Borough, Wales. It covers an extensive area of lowland raised peat bog and is internationally significant as one of the few remaining examples of this rare habitat type in the UK. The reserve comprises a complex of bogs with a mosaic of wet heathland, pools, and reedbeds, supporting specialized flora like sphagnum mosses, bog cotton, and sundews, as well as fauna including rare dragonflies, water voles, and the elusive black darter dragonfly. Historically, these peatlands have been subject to peat extraction, drainage, and agricultural use, but ongoing conservation management seeks to restore natural hydrology and preserve biodiversity. Visitors to the reserve can explore a network of boardwalks and trails that provide safe access across the soft, wet ground, enabling opportunities for birdwatching, nature photography, and peaceful walks. Key landmarks include the traditional peat cutting areas, Worm Pond, and the nearby historic Shropshire Union Canal, which enhances the cultural landscape. The reserve’s quiet environment and unusual ecosystems make it a special destination for naturalists and families interested in low-impact outdoor activities. Interpretation panels and guided walk information are available to enrich the visitor experience, highlighting the ecological importance of peat bogs and the challenges of conservation.