Four years ago, the Marlborough community famously rallied together to raise funds to help Wiltshire Wildlife Trust protect Bay Meadows for nature and people, for the future. Today, the reserve serves as a vital green corridor between Ogbourne Maizey and Marlborough, providing a sanctuary for kingfishers, brown trout, and one of the county’s few remaining populations of water voles. 

Bay Meadows is a story of community action, but that story isn’t over. This campaign looks to help people find quiet solace and a lifelong connection with this space. Whether it’s a mindful walk by the River Og or a hands-on volunteering session, there are so many ways to help support, protect and of course fall in love with this local green space. 

A Calendar of Connection  

Nature reserves can sometimes take you off the well-trodden paths into some beautiful and wild surroundings. To encourage Marlborough residents to explore the reserve, the Trust has mapped a new walking route from Marlborough town centre directly to the meadows. There are also s range of events and activities to help the community learn more about this special place: 

Valentine’s Day Guided Walk – Saturday 14 February, 10am.  

Enjoy date with nature and explore the rare chalk stream and local wildlife of Bay Meadows. 

Drop-in Volunteer Day- Saturday at 22 February, 10am -2pm  

A drop event – stay for as long or as little as you like. A chance for everyone to try their hand at practical conservation on the reserve, no experience necessary. 

Wildlife Watch for Families - Saturday 28 February, 10am  

A taster session designed to spark a lifetime of wonder in young naturalists. Perfect for ages 5-12.  

Birds of Bay Meadows – Sunday 8 March, 10am  

A special walk led by expert volunteer Paul to discover the range of birds on the nature reserve.  

While the land has been secured for nature and people for the future, the work to restore its biodiversity is ongoing. The Trust manages over 40 reserves across the county and relies on members and donors to ensure these habitats are managed carefully. It has set a fundraising target of £3,000 to support a range of conservation and engagement activities including habitat improvements for water voles and wild brown trout, and the continued hosting of community engagement activities. 

Becki Mckinlay, Director of Engagement and Fundraising for Wiltshire Wildlife Trust said:  

“Bay Meadows was saved by the community four years ago, and now we want to make sure the community feel they belong here. This campaign is designed to encourage a connection with the reserve—it’s about the mindful moments found along the River Og, it's a child’s first glimpse of the crystal-clear water and the satisfaction the community gets from shared action in volunteering. While our engagement activities offer a way to fall in love with this landscape, our £3,000 fundraising goal is what keeps that landscape alive with nature. Every donation is an investment in the health of the rare chalk stream and the protection of habitats crucial to future of the reserve; a space that belongs to every resident of Marlborough.  

Residents can find the new walking maps at various locations around the town centre or visit https://www.wiltshirewildlife.org/blog/lylnr-rediscover-bay-meadows to donate and book onto events.