Natural England - Shapwick: how to get there

Shapwick: how to get there

Shapwick Heath National Nature Reserve is in Somerset

We encourage the use of sustainable transport whenever possible.

By cycle

The reserve is close to National Route 3external link of the Sustrans National Cycle Network. There are cycle racks at both main entrances to the reserve.

By public transport

Public transport access to Shapwick Heath is very limited. For information call Traveline on 0870 6082608.

By car

From J23 on the M5 take the A39 Bridgwater to Glastonbury road. After six miles take the minor road left, signed Shapwick. Enter Shapwick Village and at the church continue north, following the brown tourist sign for Shapwick Heath NNR.

There is very little parking available at any of the sites, so avoiding the weekend rush will greatly improve your visit. Whenever you come, please follow any parking instructions given and avoid stopping on narrow verges or blocking gateways.

There is some parking at both the Avalon Marshes Centre, on Shapwick Road, near Westhay, or the Ashcott Corner Car Park, near the Railway Inn, on the Ashcott to Meare Road.

Accessibility

The reserve has two main entrances, both with interpretation boards. One is accessed from the Meare to Ashcott Road, the other from Shapwick Road.

There are eight trails running across the reserve. Please keep to the way-marked paths as wetlands can be dangerous, with uneven paths, soft ground and deep water.

Dogs are not allowed on the main reserve.

Cycle access is available along the old railway line that runs through the reserve from Shapwick Road to Ashcott Corner.

This route can also be used by wheelchairs and mobility scooters, and both the Meare Hide and the reserve’s boardwalks have disabled access.

Shapwick Heath NNR is also featured on The Nationwide Access Registerexternal link.

Local amenities and neighbouring attractions

The nearest toilet and refreshment facilities are at the Avalon Marshes Centre, Shapwick Road, Westhay. 

The nearest tourist information centres are at Glastonburyexternal link and Streetexternal link. 

There is a wide variety of accommodation in the area. The nearest camping and caravan sites are at Westhay (1km to north), in Cossington (8 km to the west) and Walton (5 km to the east). See information at http://www.visitsomerset.co.uk/site/places-to-stayexternal link

The National Nature Reserves of Ham Wall (RSPB), Westhay Moor (Somerset Wildlife Trust) and Shapwick Moor (Hawk and Owl Trust) are all within two miles of Shapwick.