Wilderness Landscape & Natural Heritage
Chorlton Ees and Ivy Green Local Nature Reserve is located in the southern part of Manchester, England, along the River Mersey floodplain. The reserve comprises two main areas: Chorlton Ees, a wetland meadow with reedbeds and flood meadows, and Ivy Green, a woodland and grassland area. Together, they cover approximately 96 acres (39 hectares) of protected green space within an urban setting. The reserve supports a rich variety of flora and fauna, especially as a vital habitat for wildfowl, waterfowl, and other bird species, including kingfishers, herons, and reed buntings. The wetland environment also fosters amphibians and invertebrates uncommon in the city. Historically, the flood meadows were used for hay production and grazing, a practice which has helped maintain the biodiversity of the area. Today, the reserve is managed to preserve these traditional habitats and to promote flood alleviation alongside community engagement and nature education. Visitors can explore informal and surfaced paths that weave through the wet meadow, woodland, and alongside the river, making this area a popular spot for walkers, birdwatchers, and photographers. The reserve’s proximity to Chorlton Village and the broader Manchester urban area provides an accessible green retreat. Facilities include bird hides, information boards, and accessible walking routes. Chorlton Ees and Ivy Green Local Nature Reserve invites visitors to experience one of Manchester’s best-loved urban nature spots where wildlife thrives alongside flood management and recreation.
