North Meadow National Nature Reserve - Image 1
1 / 10

North Meadow National Nature Reserve

4.4
·11 reviews·, United Kingdom

A rare traditional hay meadow, famous for its spectacular spring display of thousands of snakeshead fritillaries.

Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Social content

Social

From TikTok & Reddit

Best Time

Late Spring/Early Summer

Peak bloom for fritillaries

CrowdMedium
Loading map...
North Meadow National Nature Reserve - Image 1

North Meadow National Nature Reserve

Best Time

Late Spring/Early Summer

Peak bloom for fritillaries

CrowdMedium
Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

A rare traditional hay meadow, famous for its spectacular spring display of thousands of snakeshead fritillaries.

4.4
(11 reviews)

"A truly beautiful and sacred area, visiting here will bring joy and peace."

Vertical photo
TIP

🌸 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.

Third hero image

Highlights

Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Snakeshead Fritillaries

Snakeshead Fritillaries

North Meadow

Witness the rare spectacle of thousands of bell-shaped, checkered flowers blanketing the meadow.

Traditional Hay Meadow

Traditional Hay Meadow

North Meadow

Experience a rare example of a surviving medieval hay meadow, rich in biodiversity.

Cricklade Town

Cricklade Town

Adjacent to North Meadow

Explore this charming medieval town, a perfect starting or ending point for your visit.

Your AI travel agent

Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you

Start Chatting

Planning Your Visit

Timing is Everything for Fritillaries

The star attraction, snakeshead fritillaries, bloom for a short window. Check local reports before visiting, as the peak can vary. Don't rely solely on general website advice; real-time updates are key for this specific bloom.

Embrace the Natural Landscape

North Meadow is a traditional hay meadow that transforms seasonally, from winter floods to spring/summer blooms. Facilities are minimal, so come prepared for a natural experience with free parking but no amenities.

Best Times

When
Late Spring/Early Summer
Why
Peak bloom for fritillaries
Crowd
Medium
When
Winter
Why
Dramatic flooded landscapes
Crowd
Low

Insider Tips

from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit

Well #swindon wasn’t dangerous like some, 31st worst townfeels about right. #wiltshire #LearnOnTikTok #PlacesToVisit #britishhumour #ukcomedy #satire
@philc84
308K likes • 2.6M views

🌸 Check Fritillary Forecast

Peak bloom varies; check local updates before your trip to avoid disappointment! Reddit

👟 Wear Sturdy Footwear

Meadows can be wet and uneven, especially after rain or in winter. Reddit

praying for everyone out there #explosion #swindon #jesussaves
@shaniacrasto
36K likes • 321K views
The only way to build a love of nature, is to be in it. 💚 💚Around 80% of Britain’s snakeshead fritillaries grow at North Meadow. 💚 North Meadow National Nature Reserve is an old, traditional hay meadow on the northern edge of Cricklade. 💚Most meadows like this have been destroyed by modern agriculture and gravel extraction. 💚Cyanotype printing gives me an opportunity to connect with nature in ...
daisybow_craft
133 likes • 4.8K views

🚗 Parking is Free

Enjoy complimentary parking, but note it can be limited, especially during peak times. Reddit

🚫 Respect the Flora

Please stay on paths and avoid picking flowers to preserve this delicate ecosystem. Reddit

most normal thing in swindon.#swindon #fyp
@gembo.k
20.3K likes • 175.5K views

Tips

from all over the internet

🌸 Check Fritillary Forecast

Peak bloom varies; check local updates before your trip to avoid disappointment! Reddit

👟 Wear Sturdy Footwear

Meadows can be wet and uneven, especially after rain or in winter. Reddit

🚗 Parking is Free

Enjoy complimentary parking, but note it can be limited, especially during peak times. Reddit

🚫 Respect the Flora

Please stay on paths and avoid picking flowers to preserve this delicate ecosystem. Reddit

What Travellers Say

4.4
(11 reviews)

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

Rare fritillary blooms
Peaceful natural setting
Seasonal landscapes

What People Dislike

Inaccurate bloom timing
Lack of facilities

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. Reddit

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. Reddit

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. Reddit

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. Reddit

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. Reddit

🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry

No, entry to North Meadow National Nature Reserve is free. You can visit and enjoy the natural beauty without any admission fee. Reddit

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. Reddit

There is no entrance fee to visit North Meadow National Nature Reserve. It's a public space managed for conservation. Reddit

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. Reddit

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. Reddit

🎫 🌿 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. InstagramReddit

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. Instagram

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. Reddit

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. Reddit

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. Reddit

📸 📸 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. Instagram

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. Instagram

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. Instagram

Generally, photography for personal use is permitted. However, always be mindful of other visitors and the environment. Commercial photography might require permission. Instagram

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. Instagram

For Different Travelers

Tailored advice for your travel style

👨‍👩‍👧 Families with Kids

North Meadow offers a wonderful opportunity for families to connect with nature. The open space is perfect for children to explore, and the unique snakeshead fritillaries can spark their curiosity about the natural world. Instagram Encourage them to look for different types of flowers and insects. Remember to bring wellies or waterproof shoes as the meadow can be muddy, especially after rain, which kids often find fun! Reddit

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. Reddit

🚶‍♀️ Nature Walkers & Photographers

For those who love a peaceful walk and capturing the beauty of the countryside, North Meadow is ideal. The flat terrain makes for easy walking, and the ever-changing scenery provides endless photographic subjects. Instagram The golden hours around sunrise and sunset offer the most magical light for photographers. Reddit

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. InstagramReddit

Deep Dives

In-depth insights and expert knowledge

The Magic of Snakeshead Fritillaries

North Meadow National Nature Reserve is most famous for its spectacular display of snakeshead fritillaries (Fritillaria meleagris). This unique flower, with its distinctive checkered, bell-shaped bloom, is a rare sight in the UK, with North Meadow hosting around 80% of Britain's population. The meadow's survival as a traditional hay meadow is crucial for these delicate flowers. Visiting during their peak bloom, typically in late April to May, is an unforgettable experience, transforming the landscape into a sea of purple and white. Instagram

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. Reddit

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. Instagram

A Living Landscape: Seasonal Transformations

North Meadow isn't just about the fritillaries; it's a dynamic landscape that changes dramatically throughout the year. In winter, the meadow can become extensively flooded, creating a unique wetland environment that attracts different species of birds and offers a starkly beautiful, serene atmosphere. This seasonal flooding is a natural part of the meadow's ecosystem. Reddit

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. Instagram

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. Instagram

You may also like