Magor Marsh is the last example of traditionally managed fenland in the Gwent levels, with a pattern of drainage ditches and other features which have remained unchanged for centuries.
The reserve features a wet rush pasture and two hay meadows, and has been designated a Site of Special Scientific Interest (SSSI).
There is a bird hide from which you may see marsh warblers and kingfishers.
Night Herons pass by on their way to winter grounds, and sparrow hawk, buzzard and peregrine may be seen at any time of year.
Amongst the plant life you can see are marsh marigolds, yellow flag and ragged robin.
Co-ordinates: ST428866
Location: From Newport take the A48 east (towards Chepstow) and turn right onto the B4245 for the village of Magor. Turn off the road into the village and follow the signs for Redwick, passing the priory ruins on the left. Immediately after the railway bridge turn left and follow the road for about half a mile. The reserve entrance is on the right; park in the car park. Magor can also be reached from junctions 23 and 23A of the M4 motorway.
Contact: The reserve is managed by the Gwent Wildlife Trust,
Seddon House, Dingestow, Monmouth NP25 4DY
Tel 01600 740358, Fax 01600 740299.
Email: info@gwentwildlife.org.
Visit the Gwent Wildlife Trust website to find out more about Magor Marsh reserve.
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your comments
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Jess Lillie from Caldicot
I love Magor Marsh. Its scenery is beautiful and it's also very interesting. I would recommend it to everyone!
Edgar Hendy from Caldicot
I am pleased to say that for a small reserve it has a lot to offer.Im there at least two or three times a week and I always leave with a good day behind me so go and have a look theres always something to see.There is just one thing I would like to see and thats more of the pond.So if the reeds could be cut just a little you could see the Ducks.thanks for all the work done keep it up.THANKS a great home for the birds and wildlife.
Topcat, Cardiff
The M4 relief road which was proposed in the mid-90's and the idea abandoned is now back on the agenda. This will permenantly disrupt this important wetland habitat. Traffic congestion should be eased by widening the existing road and improving public transport. Do the Somerset Levels which are equally important wetlands have to endure this kind of enviromental sabotage? This motorway will only be really used in peak travel times and not throughout the day. Once it's been built industry and shops will follow to keep it viable. The councils and ministers involved should be ashamed of themselves in allowing this scheme to go ahead. Don't let this road destroy a place as valuable as the Gwent Levels. An alternative must be found.
Stuart Leatherdale of Newport
Being all on the flat, this ground offers easy walking conditions particularly suitable for the elderly or infirm. Much of the walk is along boarded walkways which keep your feet dry and clear of any mud. It is also mostly suitable to wheelchair users with the exceptions being where there is a step on or off the boarded walkways. Small children would need close supervision and it is not suitable for dogs.
The walkways allow you to get very close to the plants and insects and the hide offers excellent views over the pond with shuttered "peep holes" at heights suitable for all visitors.
