Somerset Levels and Moors Site of Special Scientific Interest (SSSI) Adventures

The Somerset Levels and Moors SSSI covers a large expanse of flat, low-lying land in Somerset, southwest England. This area is characterized by peat moors, freshwater grazing marshes, ditches, rhynes (man-made drainage channels), and floodplains along the Parrett, Tone, and Brue river valleys. Its geography is defined by a history of human interventions in water management dating back thousands of years, intended to control flooding and maintain productive agricultural land. The ecological importance of the Levels and Moors lies in its support of diverse wetland habitats, including reedbeds, wet meadows, and open water, which provide vital breeding, feeding, and wintering grounds for a variety of bird species such as Bewick's swans, bitterns, lapwings, and rare breeding waders. Otters and water voles also inhabit the waterways, benefiting from conservation efforts. The site forms part of the wider Somerset Levels and Moors National Nature Reserve and numerous adjacent protected areas, making it a key focus for wildlife conservation and sustainable agriculture. Outdoor activities here emphasize low-impact nature observation, including walking routes and bird hides that allow visitors to experience the landscape’s seasonal changes and rich fauna. Historically, the landscape reflects centuries of floodplain management with notable landmarks including the ancient wetlands, historic drainage sluices, and traditional reed-cutting. The Somerset Levels and Moors attract birdwatchers, photographers, and naturalists interested in ecology, offering peaceful recreation in a landscape shaped by water and wildlife interactions.