Ham Wall is a RSPB nature reserve within the Somerset Levels and Moors, in area called Avalon Marshes near Glastonbury. It is an internationally recognised wetland and reedbed habitat covering around 469 acres, attracting many different species of nesting birds, including Cetti’s warbler, great-crested grebes and bitterns, along with other wildlife such as water voles, otters, butterflies and dragonflies.

The wildlife to be seen at this time of year will be mainly birds, as it is a little early for most butterflies and dragonflies. The are several view points and a couple of hides within the reserve that look over the reedbeds and wetlands which offer good photo opportunities, the hides more than the view points.

At the time of writing there are no amenities other than a car park, although there are plans to build toilets.

This reserve also links with Shapwick Heath National Nature Reserve which is managed by Natural England, and there a couple of hides within a reasonable distance.

Although I did not physically see the bitterns, I did for the first time hear their booming call several times on the walk around the reserve.

Telephone : 01458 860494

OS Grid Ref : ST449397