Southwick Coast

Southwick Coast is a fascinating stretch of coastline with wooded cliffs (over 40m high) and extensive saltmarsh. Look out for the orchids and butterflies in summer, and in winter witness large numbers of greylag, pink-footed and barnacle geese.

Why visit?

Fascinating woodland
Great views over the Solway
Good birdlife
Amazing geology

Best time to visit?

May to Jul for rare plants
Oct to Mar for wildfowl
Apr to Sep for butterflies

Visit for:

Scenery
Geology
Coasts
Wildflowers
Grasslands
Woodlands
Birdwatching

Directions

The reserve lies to the south of the A710 Solway Coast scenic route between Caulkerbrush and Sandyhills Bay. There are laybys present along the A710 and space for one car by the minor road junction to Nether Clifton, opposite the reserve entrance.

Getting onto the reserve

The reserve entrance is opposite the minor road junction to Nether Clifton.

Getting round this reserve

A short section of path with viewpoints and benches is maintained in the meadow at the top of the cliff. There is also a path down to the merse through the Needle's Eye, a natural wave-cut arch. Beware of steep cliffs, soft ground and hidden water channels on the merse. Cattle may also be grazing here during the summer.