Alongside Highland cows and Konik ponies, walkers may also come across some other wildlife
The winter months are finally fading away, the clocks are soon to change, and the sun is starting to come out. There isn’t a more ideal time to put on your walking boots and explore the wonders of nature.
From a circular walk at Houghton Mill to a peaceful walk at Anglesey Abbey, walkers are not short on choices in Cambridgeshire. One particular walk even offers the chance to spot Highland cattle and Konik ponies.
Wicken Fen Adventurer’s trail offers trekkers a three-mile walk exploring a multitude of landscapes. The walk begins and ends at Wicken Fen National Trust visitor centre, in the village of Wicken, near Ely.
At the start of the walk, follow the path along Wicken Lode and Wicken’s Poor Fen. This is land where traditionally villagers had the right to collect sedge and peat.
Following along, you will cross Monk’s Lode and Norman Bridge where you can often see plants such as water lillies. Further along the trail walkers will go along a bank known as Baker’s Fen. This is the time to keep your eyes peeled for herds of Highland cattle and Konik ponies grazing away. Roe deer, hares, and birds such as eared owls and marsh harriers can also often be spotted here.
The trail then takes you along a path, which leads to the site of Norman’s Mill. This iconic, historic windpump has now been restored but originally, it was used to drain the peat pits.
Continuing along, the trail takes you alongside Wicken Fen and a path leading into West Mere Hide. This used to overlook the mere’s west end and the island. Don’t forget to note the reed beds, as well as listening out for the boom noise of the bittern insect.
Coming to the end of the trail, trekkers will follow the sign for West Mere Hide and head back to the Wicken Fen bank, crossing over the Normans Bridge and return towards the visitor centre. If you have time, make a stop along the way at West Mere Hide and see what wildlife is out in the mere. Wicken Fen is home to over 4,000 species, including Britain’s largest dragonfly.
If the three-mile walk has left you feeling peckish, then you could make a stop at The Docky Hut cafe right next to the visitor centre. It offers a variety of homemade bakes, light lunches, or an afternoon tea for you to enjoy.