Isley Marsh

Isley Marsh is made up of saltmarsh and intertidal mudflats on the southern edge of the Taw Torridge estuary. It’s an important haven for undisturbed feeding and resting birds, especially the wintering flocks of ducks and waders. A good day here can see significant numbers of Curlew, Greenshank and Dunlin. Spoonbills can also be spotted during the cold winter months.

There aren't footpaths through the reserve itself, but the trails that run around the outside of the marsh offer fantastic views of the birdlife. Protecting the reserve in this way provides birds with an undisturbed area to feed, rest and shelter, which is especially needed during high tides and rough weather.

We recommend coming to visit as the tide is coming in – as this encourages the birds closer to shore making them more visible from the footpath. The popular Tarka Trail runs along the south side of the reserve, allowing easy foot and cycle access.