This 200-acre nature reserve features a mix of habitats including woodland, grassland, and wetlands, providing a haven for a diverse range of wildlife. The reserve is centered around a restored 18th-century windmill, which offers panoramic views of the surrounding countryside. Visitors can explore the reserve's many trails, including the Windmill Trail, which takes you on a journey around the windmill and its surroundings. The reserve is also home to a variety of wildlife, including birds, butterflies, and insects, making it a haven for nature lovers and photographers.
Fantastic nature reserve. Wet heathland with some shrub and a few pools. This reserve is especially good for insects including dragonflies. I saw Red-veined Darters(a particular highlight), Emperor, Lesser Emperor, Four-spotted Chaser, Black-tailed & Keeled Skimmers. I also saw Adder, lizards & toads. Really enjoyed the reserve and I can recommend for those interested in wildlife.
Very interesting history. Built in 1600s, new spiral stairs takes you to the top. park here for Ruan pool bird watchers hut, just follow the white topped posts.
If you want to explore the downs on The Lizard then this is a good place to start. Also has some interesting history with the windmill and WW2 airfield. Note that this reserve is not signposted, the access lane says private, nothing else.
We visited in early July 2018 and saw a dozen different species of butterfly, plus at least seven different species of dragonfly. We had some difficulty in finding our way on to the nature reserve. The reserve isn't signposted from the A3083 and there is a "private" sign at the start of the main access track. We ended-up walking along the main road to access the site via a public footpath next to Trevelyan Holiday Homes. Once on the reserve, we found that some of the footpaths were rather overgrown with bramble and blackthorn. We paid a return visit in May 2019. The footpaths had been improved and new way-markers had been installed, making access much easier.
Well worth a visit, plenty of Cornish Heath to see with the Common heathers growing with it. The approach road is a bit rough and the properties along the way do their best to be unfriendly with negative signage... don't be put off, once you get to the reserve parking it is just fine and and a short walk to the good stuff. There's a variety fo habitats to enjoy, a pleasant morning to be had.
Good place for bird migration and dragonfly.
Wheelchair-accessible entrance
Hiking
Good for kids
Kid-friendly hikes
Dogs allowed
Hello! I'm your AI guide for Windmill Farm Nature Reserve. I can help you with information about this attraction, including its history, best times to visit, and tips for your visit. What would you like to know?
Discover hotels in Ruan Minor, Helston TR12 7LH
Searching for hotels...
Fantastic nature reserve. Wet heathland with some shrub and a few pools. This reserve is especially good for insects including dragonflies. I saw Red-veined Darters(a particular highlight), Emperor, Lesser Emperor, Four-spotted Chaser, Black-tailed & Keeled Skimmers. I also saw Adder, lizards & toads. Really enjoyed the reserve and I can recommend for those interested in wildlife.
Very interesting history. Built in 1600s, new spiral stairs takes you to the top. park here for Ruan pool bird watchers hut, just follow the white topped posts.
If you want to explore the downs on The Lizard then this is a good place to start. Also has some interesting history with the windmill and WW2 airfield. Note that this reserve is not signposted, the access lane says private, nothing else.
We visited in early July 2018 and saw a dozen different species of butterfly, plus at least seven different species of dragonfly. We had some difficulty in finding our way on to the nature reserve. The reserve isn't signposted from the A3083 and there is a "private" sign at the start of the main access track. We ended-up walking along the main road to access the site via a public footpath next to Trevelyan Holiday Homes. Once on the reserve, we found that some of the footpaths were rather overgrown with bramble and blackthorn. We paid a return visit in May 2019. The footpaths had been improved and new way-markers had been installed, making access much easier.
Well worth a visit, plenty of Cornish Heath to see with the Common heathers growing with it. The approach road is a bit rough and the properties along the way do their best to be unfriendly with negative signage... don't be put off, once you get to the reserve parking it is just fine and and a short walk to the good stuff. There's a variety fo habitats to enjoy, a pleasant morning to be had.
Good place for bird migration and dragonfly.
