North Meadow National Nature Reserve
A rare traditional hay meadow, famous for its spectacular spring display of thousands of snakeshead fritillaries.

Highlights
Must-see attractions

Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Peak bloom for fritillaries
North Meadow National Nature Reserve
Best Time
Peak bloom for fritillaries

Highlights
Must-see attractions
A rare traditional hay meadow, famous for its spectacular spring display of thousands of snakeshead fritillaries.
"A truly beautiful and sacred area, visiting here will bring joy and peace."
🌸 Check Fritillary Forecast
Peak bloom varies; check local updates before your trip to avoid disappointment!
👟 Wear Sturdy Footwear
Meadows can be wet and uneven, especially after rain or in winter.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Snakeshead Fritillaries
North Meadow
Witness the rare spectacle of thousands of bell-shaped, checkered flowers blanketing the meadow.

Traditional Hay Meadow
North Meadow
Experience a rare example of a surviving medieval hay meadow, rich in biodiversity.

Cricklade Town
Adjacent to North Meadow
Explore this charming medieval town, a perfect starting or ending point for your visit.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Timing is Everything for Fritillaries
Embrace the Natural Landscape
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🌸 Check Fritillary Forecast
Peak bloom varies; check local updates before your trip to avoid disappointment!
👟 Wear Sturdy Footwear
Meadows can be wet and uneven, especially after rain or in winter.
🚗 Parking is Free
Enjoy complimentary parking, but note it can be limited, especially during peak times.
🚫 Respect the Flora
Please stay on paths and avoid picking flowers to preserve this delicate ecosystem.
Tips
from all over the internet
🌸 Check Fritillary Forecast
Peak bloom varies; check local updates before your trip to avoid disappointment!
👟 Wear Sturdy Footwear
Meadows can be wet and uneven, especially after rain or in winter.
🚗 Parking is Free
Enjoy complimentary parking, but note it can be limited, especially during peak times.
🚫 Respect the Flora
Please stay on paths and avoid picking flowers to preserve this delicate ecosystem.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors praise North Meadow for its unique natural beauty, especially the rare snakeshead fritillaries and its status as a surviving traditional hay meadow. The peaceful atmosphere and seasonal landscapes are highlights. However, some have been disappointed by inaccurate bloom predictions, and the lack of facilities means visitors need to be self-sufficient.
"On the basis that the website said of the fritillaries: "This weekend will be a good time to visit and if you do, bring your binoculars" - we made a special trip. In actual fact there was barely a fritillary to be seen, binoculars or not. The meadow is well worth a visit in its own right, but be careful of the website's advice - it was very disappointing this weekend."
Richard Breese
"Lovely location for walks just outside Cricklade which is a lovely town.
The landscape changes throughout the year from being completely flooded in Winter to lush grass and flowers in Spring/Summer."
Simon Roberts
"Quite an amazing sight so many fields under water This is adjacent to the main road out of Cricklade There are no facilities just car parking which is free."
Gerry Boseley
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
North Meadow is located just outside Cricklade. You can drive and use the free parking available nearby. It's also a pleasant walk from Cricklade town center, which is about a 15-minute stroll away.
While direct public transport to the meadow itself is limited, buses serve Cricklade town. From there, it's a short walk to the reserve. Check local bus schedules for routes serving Cricklade.
There is free parking available near North Meadow. However, spaces can be limited, especially during peak visiting times for the fritillaries. Arriving early is recommended.
Yes, cycling is a great way to reach North Meadow, especially if you are coming from Cricklade or surrounding areas. There are often cycle racks available.
The meadow paths can be uneven and muddy, especially after wet weather, which may pose challenges for wheelchair users. It's best to check current conditions before your visit.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
No, entry to North Meadow National Nature Reserve is free. You can visit and enjoy the natural beauty without any admission fee.
North Meadow is a nature reserve and is generally accessible during daylight hours. There are no specific opening or closing times posted, allowing for flexible visits.
There is no entrance fee to visit North Meadow National Nature Reserve. It's a public space managed for conservation.
Yes, North Meadow can be visited year-round. The landscape changes dramatically with the seasons, offering different experiences from flooded winter scenes to vibrant spring blooms.
While official guided tours may not be regularly scheduled, local wildlife groups or conservation trusts sometimes organize events. It's worth checking local listings closer to your visit.
🎫 🌿 Onsite Experience
The snakeshead fritillaries typically bloom in late spring, usually around April and May. However, the exact timing can vary year to year based on weather conditions. It's advisable to check local reports for the most accurate information.
North Meadow is renowned for its snakeshead fritillaries, but it's also home to a variety of birdlife, insects, and other flora. It's a haven for biodiversity.
No, North Meadow is a natural reserve with minimal facilities. There are no toilets or cafes on-site. You'll find free parking, but it's best to come prepared with everything you need.
Dogs are generally welcome at North Meadow, but they must be kept on a lead at all times to protect the wildlife and delicate plant life.
Wear comfortable walking shoes or boots, as the ground can be uneven and muddy. Layers of clothing are recommended as the weather can change quickly. Waterproofs are a good idea.
📸 📸 Photography
The entire meadow offers stunning photographic opportunities, especially during the fritillary bloom. Capture the vast carpets of flowers, the changing light, and the surrounding rural landscape.
Absolutely! North Meadow is a paradise for nature photographers, offering unique floral displays and a tranquil environment. Early morning or late afternoon light can be particularly beautiful.
A wide-angle lens is great for capturing the expanse of the meadow, while a macro lens will help you get close-ups of the fritillaries and other small flora. A tripod can be useful for low-light conditions.
Generally, photography for personal use is permitted. However, always be mindful of other visitors and the environment. Commercial photography might require permission.
The 'golden hours' around sunrise and sunset offer soft, warm light that enhances the colors of the meadow. Midday sun can be harsh, but can also create dramatic shadows.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
While there are no playgrounds or cafes, the simplicity of the reserve is its charm. Pack a picnic to enjoy amidst the wildflowers and make it a memorable outdoor adventure. Keep a close eye on children to ensure they stay on paths and respect the delicate flora.
🚶♀️ Nature Walkers & Photographers
Bring your binoculars to spot birdlife and your macro lens to capture the intricate details of the wildflowers. Remember to check the fritillary bloom status before you go if that's your primary interest, to maximize your photographic opportunities.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Magic of Snakeshead Fritillaries
It's important to note that the exact timing of the fritillary bloom can vary significantly year to year, influenced by weather patterns. While websites might offer general guidance, real-time local reports are the most reliable way to plan your visit for the best chance of seeing them in full glory. Disappointment can arise if you visit too early or too late, as one reviewer noted a lack of fritillaries despite website advice.
When visiting, remember that these flowers are protected. Stay on designated paths to avoid trampling the plants and ensure their continued survival for future generations. The sight of thousands of these unique flowers carpeting the meadow is truly breathtaking and a testament to the importance of conserving these traditional habitats.
A Living Landscape: Seasonal Transformations
As spring progresses into summer, the waters recede, and the meadow bursts into life with a vibrant array of wildflowers. Beyond the famous fritillaries, you can expect to see a rich diversity of grasses and other flowering plants, supporting a healthy insect population. This makes it a fantastic spot for nature lovers and photographers at various times of the year, not just during the fritillary bloom.
This traditional hay meadow is a rare survivor of agricultural changes. Its management involves traditional practices, which help maintain its biodiversity. Visiting North Meadow offers a glimpse into a more natural, less intensively farmed landscape, providing a peaceful escape and a connection to the rhythms of nature.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit