Tag: Lindisfarne

Flora of Holy Island

Holy Island is a botanist’s paradise, famed for its orchids but also home to many other fascinating plants. Its dune slack flora, in particular, is a thing of beauty, though from the village to the shoreline and quarry, there are interesting things to see at every turn. For more information, I strongly recommend this book.

Please note that this page and other site features are a work in progress. More plants will be added as they are photographed.

Orchids

Lindisfarne Helleborine
Epipactis sancta

The Lindisfarne Helleborine is one of Britain’s rarest orchids, known only from a small area of dune slacks on Holy Island. It is a delicate, often self-pollinating species, producing greenish flowers that are easy to overlook amid surrounding vegetation. Endemic to this single locality, it is a good example of how specialised and localised Britain’s flora can be.

Most sources now regard this orchid as a subspecies of the Dune Helleborine Epipactis dunensis, though either way, it is rather special.

Marsh Helleborine
Epipactis palustris

Marsh Helleborine is arguably one of Britain’s most striking orchids, typically found in calcareous wetlands such as dune slacks and fens. Its elegant spikes carry numerous flowers, each with a distinctive white lip marked with pink and purple. It is rather conspicuous species when in bloom.

Although locally abundant in suitable habitat, it is sensitive to changes in hydrology and habitat quality, and so remains an important indicator of healthy wetland systems.

Frog Orchid
Dactylorhiza viridis

Frog Orchid is a small and rather inconspicuous species of short turf, dunes and unimproved grassland. Its dense spike of greenish flowers, often flushed with brown or purple, can be easily overlooked. Formerly placed in the genus Coeloglossum, it is a distinctive orchid whose subtle colouring sets it apart from its more showy relatives.

The individual flowers are said to resemble tiny frogs, though that could equally apply to the muddy brown colour of many individuals.

Early Marsh-orchid
Dactylorhiza incarnata

Early Marsh-orchid is a characteristic species of calcareous wetlands, including dune slacks, fens and marshy grassland. Its dense spikes of flowers range from pale flesh-pink to deeper purplish tones, often accompanied by unspotted, narrow leaves. Flowering earlier than many related species, it can be rather abundant throughout dune slacks on the island.

Several subspecies of Early Marsh-orchid are known, often defined by the colour of their flowers. These are not covered here, but a good resource can be found here.

Northern Marsh-orchid
Dactylorhiza purpurella

Northern Marsh-orchid is a robust and variable species of damp grassland, dune slacks and coastal habitats, particularly in the north and west of Britain. Its dense flower spikes are typically rich purple, though paler forms occur, and the lower lip is roughly diamond-shaped.

Locally abundant in suitable conditions, this is probably the most abundant orchid on Holy Island. You would struggle to miss it in early summer.

Pyramidal Orchid
Anacamptis pyramidalis

Pyramidal Orchid is a distinctive and often abundant species of calcareous grassland and dunes, occupying drier habitats than many of the species above. Its vivid pink flowers are borne in a tightly packed, pyramidal spike that gradually elongates with age, making it one of our most recognisable orchids. Flowering in early to mid-summer, it can form impressive displays in suitable conditions.

Whilst the typical form of Pyramidal Orchid is pink, white-flowered variants also occur on the island, albeit rarely.

Coralroot Orchid
Corallorhiza trifida

Coralroot Orchid is a small and unusual species of damp woodland and dune slacks, often associated with mossy, shaded conditions. Lacking chlorophyll, it appears pale and leafless, deriving its nutrients from fungi in the soil rather than through photosynthesis. Even on Holy Island, it is a rare and quite special little plant.

© Chris Barlow

Common Twayblade
Neottia ovata

Common Twayblade is a widespread and adaptable orchid of grassland, woodland edges and dune systems. It is easily recognised by its pair of broad, opposite leaves and its tall spike of numerous small green flowers.

Common Spotted-orchid
Dactylorhiza fuchsii

Common Spotted-orchid is one of Britain’s most widespread and familiar orchids, occurring in grassland, dune slacks, woodland edges and roadside verges. Its flower spikes carry numerous pale pink to lilac blooms, each intricately marked with darker loops and spots, while the leaves are typically boldly spotted.

Holy Island is one of the few places, locally at least, where pure white Common Spotted-orchids are quite common.

Wildflowers

Pirri-pirri-bur
Acaena novae-zelandiae

Pirri-pirri-bur, is a low-growing, mat-forming plant of coastal grassland and dunes, introduced to Britain from New Zealand. Its small, inconspicuous flowers give way to distinctive spiny burrs that readily cling to clothing and animal fur, aiding its spread. It is a prodigious weed on Holy Island, though one which can be encountered rather widely.

This species was introduced as a wool contaminant and was first recorded in the wild in the UK in 1901. The populations on Holy Island show a preference for fixed dunes.

Purple Milk-vetch
Astragalus danicus

Purple milk-vetch is a low-growing legume of dry, calcareous grassland, including coastal dunes. Its compact clusters of rich purple, pea-like flowers sit above finely divided, grey-green foliage, creating a striking display in late spring. Now scarce and local in Britain, it is a species of considerable conservation interest.

It is classified as ‘Endangered’ in
The Vascular Plant Red Data List for
Great Britain due to a
substantial decline since 1930.

Carline Thistle
Carlina vulgaris

A distinctive plant of dry, calcareous grassland, including dunes and limestone slopes. Its stiff, spiny leaves form a low rosette, from which arises a striking, star-like flower head surrounded by straw-coloured bracts. Unusual among thistles, the flower heads open in dry, sunny conditions and close in damp weather, a trait once used as a natural weather indicator.

Seaside Centaury
Centaurium littorale

Seaside Centaury is a delicate annual of coastal habitats, particularly dune slacks and salt marsh edges. Its slender stems bear clusters of small, star-like pink flowers that open in bright sunlight, adding subtle colour to short, open turf. It is quite widespread on the island but is perhaps best observed on the Snook.

Autumn Gentian
Gentianella amarella subsp. septentrionalis

Gentianella amarella subsp. septentrionalis is a diminutive but striking plant of short, calcareous turf, including coastal dunes and grassland. This uncommon subspecies has pale white flowers, contrasting with the pink flowers of the common variety, and is confined primarily to coastal areas of Scotland and Northern England. It flowers later than most of the species on this list.

© Chris Barlow

Henbane
Hyoscyamus niger

Henbane is a striking and rather sinister plant of disturbed ground, coastal dunes and waste places. Its large, sticky, foul-smelling leaves and pale yellow flowers, intricately veined with purple and marked by a dark centre, give it a distinctive and somewhat eerie appearance. Long associated with folklore and medicine, it is highly toxic and now a scarce and local species in Britain.

© Chris Barlow

Look for this one on disturbed ground around the village and harbour.

© Chris Barlow

Common Sea-lavender
Limonium vulgare

Common Sea-lavender is a characteristic plant of salt marshes and estuarine mudflats in southern England, but is altogether rarer in the North East. Here, it grows on the rocky shore of Cuthbert’s Isle, its airy sprays of small, violet flowers, each held within a papery calyx, can create a soft purple haze in summer.

The colony on Holy Island was (and may still be) the most northernly on the east coast of England.

Grass-of-Parnassus
Parnassia palustris

This is a beautiful plant of calcareous flushes, fens and dune slacks. Its solitary white flowers, delicately veined with green and held above a basal rosette of leaves, are among the most elegant in the British flora. Flowering late in the season, it is a characteristic species of unspoilt, high-quality habitat.

© Chris Barlow
© Chris Barlow

Rough Clover
Trifolium scabrum

Trifolium scabrum is a small annual of dry, open ground, particularly in coastal grassland and sandy soils. Its compact flower heads consist of tiny pink to whitish florets that can be easily overlooked among short turf. It grows in bare, open areas with little competition and can often be hard to find.

© Chris Barlow

Look for Rough Clover on the Whin outcrops at Lindisfarne Castle.

© Chris Barlow

Scots Lovage
Ligusticum scoticum

Scots Lovage is a robust coastal plant of rocky shores, dunes, cliffs and maritime grassland. Its fleshy, aromatic leaves and rounded umbels of greenish-white flowers are well adapted to salt-laden winds and exposed conditions. Largely confined to northern and western coasts, the colony of Holy Island represents its most southerly outpost on the east coast of Britain.

It is thought that drought sensitivity and the requirement for cold, wet conditions for germination may be responsible for limiting its spread to more southerly areas.

Round-leaved Wintergreen
Pyrola rotundifolia subsp. rotundifolia

Rround-leaved Wintergreen is an elegant and rather local plant of dune slacks and fens. Its glossy, rounded evergreen leaves form a low rosette, from which rise slender stems bearing nodding, white, sweetly scented flowers. Often associated with base-rich, undisturbed habitats, it is a species of conservation concern.

© Chris Barlow
© Chris Barlow

Bog Pimpernel
Lysimachia tenella

This is a delicate creeping plant of damp, calcareous dune-slacks. Its slender stems bear small, rounded leaves and charming pink, striped star-like flowers that appear in summer.

Dwarf Mallow
Malva neglecta

Dwarf Mallow is a low-growing, often prostrate plant of disturbed ground, pavements and waste places. Its rounded, shallowly lobed leaves and small, pale pink flowers with darker veins give it a modest but attractive appearance.

This one is rather plentiful around the village, where it occurs at wall bases and on areas of waste ground.

Common Butterwort
Pinguicula vulgaris

Butterwort is a small carnivorous plant of wet heaths, flushes and calcareous wetlands. Its pale green, greasy leaves form a low rosette that traps small insects, supplementing its nutrient intake in poor soils. Above these, delicate purple flowers are borne on slender stems in early summer.

© Chris Barlow

Tree-mallow
Malva arborea

A naturalised introduction, Tree Mallow is a tall, conspicuous plant of coastal cliffs, islands and maritime grassland. Its large, softly hairy leaves and pale pink to lilac flowers are quite distinctive.

Tree Lupin
Lupinus arboreus

Tree Lupin is a robust, shrubby plant of coastal dunes and sandy soils, introduced to Britain from western North America. Its tall spikes of yellow, pea-like flowers are often conspicuous, forming dense stands in suitable conditions.

While attractive, it can be invasive, altering dune habitats by fixing nitrogen and outcompeting native vegetation.

Parsley Water-dropwort
Oenanthe lachenalii

Oenanthe lachenalii is a slender plant of coastal salt marshes and damp grassland. Its finely divided leaves and loose umbels of small white flowers give it a delicate, airy appearance in summer.

Rather rare on the island, it occurs scantily in a few permanently damp dune slacks but is nowhere common.

Milk Thistle
Silybum marianum

Best found at the base of the Vicar’s Garden, Milk Thistle is a bold and distinctive plant of disturbed ground, roadsides, and coastal habitats. Large, glossy leaves display striking white marbling and sharp spines along their edges, while tall stems carry prominent purple flower heads that create an impressive sight.

Long associated with herbal medicine, it is likely a long-established introduction on Holy Island.

Brookweed
Samolus valerandi

Brookweed is a small and rather unobtrusive plant of damp ground, particularly in coastal habitats such as salt marshes and wet flushes. Its low rosette of fleshy leaves gives rise to slender stems bearing tiny white flowers, each delicately marked at the throat. Easily overlooked, it is a characteristic species of open, periodically inundated ground.

Hare’s-foot Clover
Trifolium arvense

A distinctive annual of dry, sandy soils, including dunes, heaths and disturbed ground. Its soft, cylindrical flower heads bristle with silky hairs, giving them a pale, silvery sheen reminiscent of a hare’s foot. It often thrives abundantly in open habitats, well-adapted to nutrient-poor conditions and sparse vegetation, and commonly appears throughout the village and harbour.

Blue Fleabane
Erigeron acris

Blue fleabane is a slender and often overlooked plant of dry, open ground, including dunes, grassland and disturbed soils. Its small, daisy-like flower heads are composed of numerous narrow rays, often tinged with lilac or purplish hues.

Rather localised, this one is best looked for in the quarry area.

Hound’s-tongue
Cynoglossum officinale

Hound’s-tongue, is a softly hairy plant of dry, often calcareous soils, including dunes, grassland and disturbed ground. Its dull reddish-purple flowers are borne in coiled clusters, while the elongated, velvety leaves are said to resemble a dog’s tongue, giving rise to its common name. The plant produces barbed burrs that readily cling to clothing and animal fur, aiding its dispersal.

Bugloss
Lycopsis arvensis

Bugloss is a rough, bristly annual of arable land, sandy soils and disturbed ground. Its small blue flowers, borne in coiled clusters, resemble those of forget-me-nots, though the plant itself is far coarser in texture.

Now much declined due to agricultural intensification, it is a scarce and local species of open, low-nutrient habitats.

Marsh Pennywort
Hydrocotyle vulgaris

Marsh Pennywort is a creeping plant of damp grassland, marshes and dune slacks. Its rounded, coin-like leaves are borne on slender stalks, forming spreading mats across wet ground.

This one is rather common across the island and can be found in most areas of suitable habitat.

Common Broomrape
Orobanche minor

Common Broomrape is a curious parasitic plant of grassland and dunes, most often associated with clovers. Lacking chlorophyll, it appears as a leafless spike of pale brown to purplish flowers, drawing all its nutrients from the roots of its host.

Shoreweed Littorella uniflora

Littorella uniflora is a small and specialised plant of clean, nutrient-poor waters, typically found along the margins of lakes, pools and dune slacks. Its tight rosettes of narrow, fleshy leaves often grow submerged or on wet sand, making it easy to overlook. The tiny, inconspicuous flowers are borne singly on short stems

Ferns, Horsetails & Clubmosses

Small Adder’s-tongue
Ophioglossum azoricum

Small Adder’s-tongue is a minute and easily overlooked fern of short, often coastal grassland and dune slacks. It typically produces a single, simple frond alongside a slender, fertile spike, both close to the ground.

This is a very rare plant in Northumberland; thus no information on location is provided.

Variegated Horsetail
Equisetum variegatum

Variegated Horsetail is a distinctive species of damp, often calcareous habitats, including dune slacks and lake margins. Its stiff, jointed stems are marked with characteristic black-and-white banding at the nodes, giving it a striking appearance. Often forming low, spreading patches, it is well adapted to open, seasonally wet conditions.

Lesser Clubmoss
Selaginella selaginoides

Lesser Clubmoss is a small and rather moss-like plant of damp grassland, heaths and flushes. Its delicate, creeping stems are clothed in tiny leaves, giving it a soft, low-growing appearance. Though easily overlooked, it is rather abundant across suitable habitats on the island.

Grasses, Rushes & Sedges

Sand Cat’s-tail
Phleum arenarium

A small annual grass of dry, sandy soils, particularly in coastal dunes and disturbed ground. Its short, dense, cylindrical flower spikes resemble a miniature cat’s tail, giving rise to its common name. Localised and easily overlooked, it is well adapted to open, shifting substrates with little competition.

Black Bog-rush
Schoenus nigricans

Black Bog-rush is a distinctive plant of base-rich fens, flushes and dune slacks. It forms dense tussocks of wiry stems topped with clusters of dark brown to black spikelets, giving it a characteristic appearance. Often dominant in suitable conditions, it is incredibly abundant on the Snook, where it forms dense drifts across damp depressions close to the car park.

© Chris Barlow
© Chris Barlow

Flat-sedge
Blysmus compressus

Flat-sedge is a low-growing plant of damp, calcareous grassland, fens and dune slacks. It forms small tufts of flattened stems bearing neat rows of brown spikelets, giving it a distinctive, orderly appearance.

A rare plant regionally, it is by no means scarce on Holy Island.

Long-bracted Sedge
Carex extensa

A characteristic plant of coastal salt marshes and maritime grassland, the flowering stems bear distinctive, leaf-like bracts that extend well beyond the spikelets, giving it a recognisable appearance. Tolerant of saline conditions, it is a typical species of the upper marsh and transitional coastal habitats.

Saltmarsh Rush
Juncus gerardii

Saltmarsh Rush is a characteristic species of coastal salt marshes and upper shore habitats. It forms dense tufts of stiff, grass-like stems, often dominating areas subject to regular salt spray and occasional inundation. Its compact clusters of small brown flowers are subtle but rather frequent once you get your eye in.

© Chris Barlow

Sea Club-rush
Bolboschoenus maritimus

A robust plant of brackish wetlands, including salt marshes, estuaries and coastal lagoons. The tall, triangular stems of Sea Club-rush bear clusters of brown spikelets, often forming conspicuous stands in shallow water or wet mud. Spreading by rhizomes and tubers, it can be locally dominant in suitable areas.

© Chris Barlow
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Urban Gems: Where to Enjoy Wildlife In Newcastle

Newcastle, my hometown, is a haven for wildlife enthusiasts. While it might not seem obvious at first, the city’s streets, parks, nature reserves, and even industrial zones offer plenty to enjoy throughout the year. In the next instalment of a new series on this blog, I’ve put together a curated list of ten places in Newcastle you should visit to enjoy wildlife. Some are well-known, while others might surprise you. And don’t worry, I promise there won’t be a Kittiwake in sight – they already get plenty of attention elsewhere!

1: Jesmond Dene

Jesmond Dene, a picturesque park located in the heart of Newcastle, has a rich history that can be traced back to the 19th century. The park owes much to industrialist and businessman Lord Armstrong, who, in the mid-1800s, transformed the previously private estate into a public park for the enjoyment of the local community. Armstrong’s vision was to create an urban escape that harmoniously blended natural beauty with innovative landscaping. I’d like to think he succeeded…

Much of the interest in the dene centres on its birds. Kingfishers are a firm fixture of the Ouse Burn here and Grey Wagtail and Dipper can also be found. Add to these a typical mix of woodland birds, and treats like Tawny Owl and Sparrowhawk and you have the makings of a great day’s birding. There are mammals here too, though they are more elusive. Local people often report Roe Deer and Otters are occasionally sighted on the burn. Wander at dusk, and you’re also likely to encounter bats.

What about plants I hear you say? Owing to its roots as a naturalistic garden, the dene is quite eclectic. As well as host of woodland indicator species – Bluebell, Wood Anemone, Dog’s-mercury and the like – you can also expect to see a whole host of modern colonists, from White-stemmed Bramble and Autumn Crocus to Italian Lords-and-Ladies. These aside, a personal favourite of mine has to be the North American Salmonberry, a relative of the Raspberry, that blooms in the Dene each spring. While non-native plants aren’t always to be celebrated, here they add another layer of complexity to an already interesting site.

Dark-edged Bee-Fly
(Bombylius major)
Salmonberry
(Rubus spectabilis)
Early Bumblebee
(Bombus pratorum)
A typical view of Jesmond Dene

2: Havannah and Three Hills Nature Reserve

Established as a nature reserve in 1998, Havannah and Three Hills, formerly the site of a drift mine and slag heaps linked to the Hazelrigg Colliery, is designated as a Site of Local Conservation Interest. This urban oasis is notable for its diverse range of habitats, a relative rarity in Newcastle. Notably, it holds one of only two remaining areas of lowland heath in the city, marked by extensive areas of Heather. Elsewhere, the landscape comprises restored woodlands, grasslands, and small ponds.

Havannah is important for its wildlife, especially as the last known spot in Newcastle where Red Squirrels can be found. Though their numbers have declined recently, sightings from 2024 confirm they’re still around. Other mammals like Weasel, Brown Hare, Roe Deer, and Red Fox can also be seen from time to time and birdwatchers will enjoy the site too thanks to species such as Yellowhammer and Linnet, typically rare in the city. The pond attracts various birds, with the occasional visit from a Little Egret.

Invertebrates add to Havannah’s ecological significance. The heathland supports Dingy Skipper, alongside other specialists like Mother Shipton, while the varied habitats contribute to a thriving community of ladybirds, notably featuring species such as Striped and Heather Ladybirds.

Plants can be interesting too with seasonal highlights including the fluffy heads of Common Cottongrass, the flowers of Northern Marsh Orchid, and the yellow blooms of the scarce Dyer’s Greenweed during the summer months.

Scrub habitat at Havannah
It is worth checking the notices
Striped Ladybird
(Myzia oblongoguttata)
18-spot ladybird
(Myrrha octodecimguttata)

3: Walker Riverside Park


Nestled on the banks of the Tyne River adjacent to Walker, this diverse site encompasses a popular yet somewhat overlooked riverside park under the management of Urban Green Newcastle. The landscape here includes calcareous grassland atop abandoned industrial ground, amenity woodland, intertidal mudflats, and various disturbed habitats. Within the park, remnants of the former St. Anthony’s Tar Works are rich in wildflowers like Wild Basil, Greater Knapweed, Small Scabious, Clustered Bellflower, and Sainfoin. Along the riverside walls, one can find Musk Thistle, Perennial Wall-rocket, and other noteworthy species. Additionally, areas of relic saltmarsh offer a glimpse of coastal flora, including Purple Glasswort, Sea-aster, and other salt-loving species.

The abundance of wildflowers at Walker is mirrored by a diverse insect community. Similar to Havannah, Dingy Skipper butterflies inhabit the area, accompanied by Common Blue, Small Skipper, and Small Copper. The bee, hoverfly, and moth communities add interest too, while the location recognised as the sole local outpost of the Speckled Bush-cricket. A new arrival in the city!

Located close to the River Tyne, sightings of Grey Seal, Common Seal, and even Otter are not uncommon here either.

Small Copper
(Lycaena phlaeas)
Buffish Mining Bee
(Andrena nigroaenea)
Clustered Bellflower
(Campanula glomerata)
Speckled Bush-cricket
(Leptophyes punctatissima)

4: Gosforth Nature Reserve

Managed by the Natural History Society of Northumbria, Gosforth Nature Reserve is perhaps the oldest nature reserve in North East England. An urban oasis, it features many habitats altogether rare in the wider city including fen, wet woodland, expansive reebeds and even some vibrant meadow areas.

The reserve’s larger wildlife is its greatest draw with visitors regularly reporting sightings of Otter, Red Fox, Roe Deer, Weasel and Stoat. More secretive are the Badgers and several bats species, while birds too are diverse. Depending on the season, highlights may include Bittern, Water Rail, Little Egret, Barn Owl and Green Woodpecker. In the warmer months, large numbers of Swallows and martins can be seen and far rarer visitors appear on occasion, among them Marsh Harrier and Hobby.

Gosforth Nature Reserve is similarly noteworthy for its smaller inhabitants. Insects can be exceptionally diverse with a great many dragon and damselflies and of course, a wide-range of butterflies. The latter includes Purple Hairstreak and White-letter Hairstreak and often, Holly Blue. In Spring, look out for Clarke’s Mining Bee on willow flowers and in high summer, Oak Bush-crickets adorning the trunks of trees in the wood.

Finally, if flowers are your forte, the reserve supports its fair share. Look out for the pompon-like flowers of Devil’s-bit Scabious, the tall yellow blooms of Greater Spearwort and several species of orchid among others.

Greater Spearwort
(Ranunculus lingua)
White-letter Hairstreak
(Satyrium w-album)
Oak Bush-cricket
(Meconema thalassinum)
Holly Blue (Celastrina argiolus)

5: Lower Ouseburn Valley

The Lower Ouseburn Valley is a thing of beauty. An amalgamation of industry, dereliction and rejuvination, it perfectly demonsrates the value human centric habitats can hold for biodiversity. Local CIC, Wild Intrigue, share so much lovely content on the the Ouse Burn and the surrounding area that expansion seems unecessary but suffice to say, for the budding botanist, it is a very interesting site. There a few places locally where you can see scarce natives and archaeophytes such as Gypsywort, Water Figwort, Green Field-speedwell and Small Nettle growing side-by-side with such well established recent escapes. Hjelmqvist’s Cotoneaster, Tall Melilot, Giant Hogweed, and so much more, there is no better place to experience the ‘new’ flora of Newcastle.

For those not so fascinated by botanicals, there is a great deal to see. The Ouse Burn itself holds Otter (check out these AMAZING images), Kingfisher, Grey Wagtail, Dipper and resident pair of Mute Swans that insist on breeding in awkward positions each year, much to the delight of residents.

Insect wise, look out for large gatherings of ladybirds on the Ouseburn’s ornamental shrubs. Sure, most will be the non-native Harlequin Ladybird but recent records show Cream-spot, Orange, 7-spot, Pine and so many other species.

As someone who visits the Ouseburn area regularly, I must confess, this site is my guilty pleasure. Jampacked with wildlife and people too, it shows how both can live together in relative tranquility.

Fiddleneck
(Amsinckia micrantha)
Yellow-wort
(Blackstonia perfoliata)
A typical view of the Ouse Burn

6: Big Waters Country Park

I love this one. A Northumberland Wildlife Trust reserve shared with Urban Green Newcastle, it is one of the best places in Newcastle to observe our native flora. The ponds are wonderfully diverise with Rigid Hornwort and Fennel Pondweed and the grasslands packed with scarcities such as Fairy Flax and Agrimony. Alas, this isn’t a botanical blog so I will endevor to delve deeper…

Big Waters is most notable for its birdlife. In Winter, you can expect to see an eccelctic mix of wildfowl including Pochard, Teal, Wigeon, Shovler and Goleneye, even the odd Pintail and Whooper Swan. In fact, the site is well known for attracting local rarities including a returning American Wigeon which routinely delights crowds come Autumn and Winter.

Beyond birdlife, this is a phenominal site to observe insects. Bees include Tawny Mining Bee, Buffish Mining Bee, Vestal Cuckoo Bee and more, while ladybirds include the rare 18-spot, a specialist of conifer trees. There are too many records to summarise here but it is worth checking out iRecord for the records of Chris Barlow who has shared much about the site.

A botanical montage from a Summer’s day at Big Waters

7: Scotswood Road

Positioned along Scotswood Road, a significant thoroughfare leading into the city from the west, lies an unexpected haven for wildlife enthusiasts. Despite their urban location, the grasslands, scrub, and wooded areas along the road are rather diverse, providing a home for various species.

An abundance of wildflowers in the grasslands here attracts many insects, especially butterflies. Dingy Skipper, uncommon in the nearby area, are plentiful in spring and later, other butterfly species like Common Blue, Small Skipper, Large Skipper, Meadow Brown, and Ringlet can be seen. Bees are also plentiful here, including Buffish and Chocolate Mining Bees, along with seven species of bumblebees. Lucky observers might even spot the Mother Shipton moth – a grassland specialist with at first, may appear more like a butterfly in flight.

Insects aside, Scotswood Road boasts a variety of wild plants, particularly species associated with calcareous grassland. In the summer, visitors can enjoy sepcies such as Small Scabious, Greater and Chalk Knapweed, Hoary Plantain, Wild Basil, and Kidney-vetch. Bee Orchids are also thriving in the area, with hundreds spotted nearby in 2023.

Dingy Skipper
(Erynnis tages)
Adonis’ Ladybird
(Hippodamia variegata)
Hoary Plantain
(Plantago media)
Bee Orchid
(Ophrys apifera)

8: Newburn and Kingfisher Industrial Estate

Surprisingly, an industrial estate well and truly earns its place among the city’s top spots for wildlife enthusiasts. Despite its somewhat neglected appearance, this area offers a remarkable experience throughout the year. Its main allure lies in the fact that it is one of Newcastle’s premier locations to observe wild orchids. During summer, visitors can easily spot varieties such as Bee Orchid, Common Spotted Orchid, Northern Marsh Orchid, and Broad-leaved Helleborine. However, the real gem is the flourishing populations of Dune Helleborine, an rather rare plant with some of its densest concentrations found along the River Tyne. The little video below should give a flavour of what to expect…

But orchids aren’t the only floral treasures here. Newburn boasts an array of local specialties including Nettle-leaved Bellflower, Marsh Pennywort, Viper’s-bugloss, and the delicate Blue Fleabane, thriving in the chalky remnants of former industrial sites.

This site is also an underappreciated haven for urban birdwatchers. Green Woodpecker, a rarity in Newcastle, is a frequent visitor, alongside Kestrel, Sparrowhawk, and Peregrine. In winter, Jack Snipe can be found amidst rushes, while the numerous Alders attract sizable flocks of Siskin and Lesser Redpoll. Gazing across the Tyne towards Gateshead, one might even catch sight of a majestic Red Kite on the wing.

9: Iris Brickfield Park

Another park managed by Urban Green Newcastle, and perhaps my favorite of them all, is Iris Brickfield. Despite its small size, this small, green island showcases the rich variety of life that can thrive in tiny spaces.

Thanks to careful management, the park boasts an abundance of wildflowers, with around 220 species recorded in the past year alone. Some notable ones include Sweet Violet, Yellow-rattle, Green Field-speedwell, Field Scabious, and Wood Anemone, among many others. The park also features a lovely small pond, where you can spot Bog Bean, Purple Loosestrife, Mare’s-tail, and other wetland plants not often encountered in the city. Somewhat outdated now, I previously shared a post detailing the flora of this park.

Where there’s water, there’s wildlife. From amphibians like Common Frog and Smooth Newt to dragonflies like Broad-bodied Chaser, there’s plenty to see.

Insects are abundant too, with thriving colonies of several solitary bees such as the Tawny Mining Bee, Buffish Mining Bee, and Gooden’s Nomad Bee. Holly Blue butterflies grace the park in spring, while ladybirds are a year-round highlight. The pond is known to harbor Water Ladybirds, and you might spot 10-spot, Pine, and 2-spot Ladybirds among the trees on site.

Yellow-rattle
(Rhinanthus minor)
Bog-bean
(Menyanthes trifoliata)
Water Ladybird
(Anisosticta novemdecimpunctata)
Northern Marsh-orchid
(Dactylorhiza purpurella)

10: Sugley Dene

Sugley Dene is a new discovery for me, one I started exploring in 2023. It’s one of the few remaining areas of ancient semi-natural woodland in Newcastle, offering a glimpse into the landscape of times past.

The woodland is thriving with ancient woodland wildflowers like Great Wood-rush, Wood Anemone, and Bluebell. If you look closely, you’ll also find two grasses typical of older woodlands: Wood Melick and Wood Millet. Thanks to its damp and shady environment, Sugley Dene is a haven for ferns, including Lady-fern, Hard Shield-fern, Hart’s-tongue, Hard-fern, and Soft Shield-fern.

Since it’s visited by few people and quite distant from nearby roads, Sugley Dene is an ideal spot to experience the dawn chorus. The melodies of birds like Chiffchaff, Blackcap, Willow Warbler, and Song Thrush create a beautiful symphony each spring, making it a perfect place to unwind and enjoy the early morning tranquility.

Exploring ferns in Sugley Dene

10 Great Places to Enjoy Wildflowers in Northumberland

Northumberland, my home county, is a haven for botanists, offering a rich tapestry of landscapes that range from windswept hills and expansive moors to coastal dunes, wetlands, and impressive woodlands. As a lifelong resident, I may be a tad biased, but the flora here truly spoils enthusiasts for choice.

To help inspire your next stroll in nature, I thought I’d share a curated list of ten great places to enjoy wildflowers in Northumberland. While some may be familiar, a couple might just surprise you, hopefully adding an extra layer of discovery to your next botanical adventure.

As a quick disclaimer, I should add now that list is not exhaustive. There are many other great places out there to be explored…

1: The Snook, Holy Island

Lindisfarne, a part-time island off the North Northumberland coast, needs little introduction. Revered for its religious significance, rich history, and breathtaking scenery, the island is undoubtedly Northumberland’s premier botanical hotspot, offering an abundance that exceeds the scope of a single visit.

Among Lindisfarne’s diverse habitats, ‘The Snook’ stands out with its slacks, grey dunes, and saltmarsh. This peninsula, distinguished by a solitary house famous for its role in the ITV series Vera, is home to botanical treasures too numerous to detail here.

For orchid enthusiasts, early summer unveils a spectacular display of Common Spotted Orchid, Early and Northern Marsh Orchids, alongside various hybrids, Common Twayblade, and a profusion of Marsh Helleborine. Recently demoted to a sub-species but still rather species, drier spots also hold populations of Lindisfarne Helleborine – once thought of as a Northumbrian endemic.

Beyond orchids, The Snook boasts exceptional diversity. Highlights include the rare Seaside Centaury, the delicate Bog Pimpernel, and Scots Lovage, teetering on the southern edge of its range in Northumberland. Brookweed, an unassuming yet notable plant, thrives here, alongside Autumn Gentian and smaller wonders like Lesser Clubmoss, Variegated Horsetail, and Black Bog-rush (okay, these aren’t wildflowers but they are interesting!).

While visiting the Snook, you may also like to pop into the nearby dunes where species like Pyramidal Orchid, Bee Orchid, Blue Fleabane and Viper’s-bugloss also await.

Lindisfarne Helleborine (Epipactis sancta)
Pyramidal Orchid (Anacamptis pyramidalis)
Marsh Helleborine (Epipactis palustris)
Common Spotted Orchid (Dactylorhiza fuchsii)
Common Twayblade (Neottia ovata)
Bog Pimpernel (Lysimachia tenella)
Blue Fleabane (Erigeron acris)

2: East Chevington Nature Reserve


East Chevington, a Northumberland Wildlife Trust reserve perched atop a former mine overlooking scenic Druridge Bay, is well worth a visit. Featuring expansive wetlands, reedbeds, dunes, and grassland, the site is a haven not only for more obvious wildlife but also for a diverse array of plants which we’ll explore here.

As one of the rare pockets of high-quality coastal grassland in South Northumberland, the reserve has an intriguing flora. Standouts include Lesser Butterfly-orchid, Dyer’s Greenweed, Pyramidal Orchid, not to mention Marsh Helleborine and Sea Bindweed, rediscovered at the site in 2023. And, of course, one can’t easily overlook expanses of Bloody Crane’s-bill, Northumberland’s county flower, adorning pathsides and grassy areas.

Beyond the more prominent blooms, attentive visitors will be rewarded with sightings of Zigzag Clover, Fairy Flax, Celery-leaved Buttercup, Long-headed Poppy, and a myriad other plants. For an extra treat, a brief detour to the nearby beach unveils the hardy coastal flora of the county, featuring Prickly Saltwort and other specialists like Sea-rocket and Sea Sandwort.

Accessible to all, like many Wildlife Trust reserves, East Chevington invites exploration.

Celery-leaved Buttercup (Ranunculus sceleratus)
Lesser Butterfly-orchid (Platanthera bifolia)
Marsh Cinquefoil (Comarum palustre)
Sea Bindweed (Calystegia soldanella)
Burnet Rose (Rosa spinosissima)
Bloody Crane’s-bill (Geranium sanguineum)

3: Warkworth, dunes and saltmarsh

The town of Warkworth, nestled close to Amble on the Northumberland coast, is picturesque in its own right. However, the nearby dunes, saltmarsh and coastal grasslands, somewhat overlooked compared to more famous sites like Holy Island, possess much more to be admired.

In late spring, the dune slacks come alive with the countless flowering spikes of the Early Purple-orchid and as summer unfolds, visitors can delight in another local specialty, Maiden Pink, as its diminutive flowers peek out amidst a tapestry of interesting, albeit less vibrant, grasses and sedges.

A close inspection of the sward at Warkworth reveals a miniature world with species like Little Mouse-ear, Mouse-ear Hawkweed, Common Stork’s-bill, and an assortment of delicate eyebrights. Yet, larger blooms are equally abundant. Keep an eye out for Viper’s-bugloss, the frothy flowers of Hoary Cress, and treats like Wild Basil and Burnet Rose.

The strandline and saltmarsh at Warkworth add another layer of interest with a rich community of salt-loving plants. Among these, Sea Sandwort, Sea Purslane, Spear-leaved Orache, and the ever-charming Thrift. Undoubtedly, Warkworth is a special place and there undoubtedly new species to be found.

Maidan Pink (Dianthus deltoides) at Warkworth

4: Embleton Quarry Nature Reserve

Embleton Quarry Nature Reserve, a hidden gem often overshadowed by more well-known sites on this list, boasts a quiet charm. Managed with dedication by local volunteers, this small but tranquil reserve has much to offer visiting botanists.

Orchids take center stage at Embleton (don’t they always?) and are represented by Common Spotted, Northern Marsh, and, notably, Bee Orchid. Beyond these fan favorites, the site stands out for harboring populations of Purple Ramping-fumitory and White Ramping-fumitory, alongside a cheery array of familiar species such as Wild Teasel, Red Bartsia, Salad Burnet, and Weld.

Much of Embleton’s interest lies its close proximity to residential areas, responsible for introducing a mix of garden escapes. While none have become invasive, the reserve hosts several botanical oddities like Lamb’s-ear, Garden Peony, Poet’s Daffodil, and Hidcote Comfrey, among a plethora of other aliens.

For those with a penchant for exploration, a visit to the nearby Embleton Churchyard unveils another fascinating plant — Deadly Nightshade, thriving as one of its only Northumberland strongholds.

White Campion (Silene latifolia)
Hidcote Comfrey (Symphytum x hidcotense)
Poet’s Daffodil (Narcissus poeticus)
Scarlet Pimpernel (Lysimachia arvensis)
Northern Marsh-orchid (Dactylorhiza purpurella)
Garden Star-of-Bethlehem (Ornithogalum umbellatum)

5: Newbiggin-by-the-Sea

Newbiggin and its surrounds stand out as an ecologically rich area that might just surprise visitors. A northward walk from Church Point reveals a varied landscape encompassing sandy shoreline, relic dunes, and the rough grassland of the golf course. Here, several notable wildflower species can be found including the diminutive Bird’s-foot, a member of the pea family, the coastal specialist Purple Milk-vetch, and just occasionally, Bee Orchids. The Church Point car park itself is noteworthy, teeming with Hoary-cress, Thrift, Dwarf Mallow, and other interesting plants.

Exploring the sandy shoreline may yield four species of Orache, among them Frosted Orache and Babbington’s Orache. Additionally, common coastal plants such as Buck’s-horn Plantain and Sea Milkwort are abundant. Heading higher up, the cliffs offer Sea Campion, while the golf course holds rarer species such as Good-King-Henry, Northern Marsh-orchid, Burnet Rose, and Pencilled Crane’s-bill — a notable escapee at the site.

Purple Milk-vetch (Astragalus danicus)
Northern Marsh-orchid (Dactylorhiza purpurella)
Sea-milkwort (Lysimachia maritima)

6: Allen Banks and Staward Gorge

Managed by the National Trust, Allen Banks boasts a distinctive blend of ancient woodland and ornamental planting, reflecting the influence of the past custodians on the estate. Renowned as one of the premier locations in Northumberland to investigate our ancient woodland flora, the site offers much of interest with highlights of Bird’s-nest Orchid, Early-purple Orchid, and the peculiar-looking Toothwort.

A stroll along the wooded banks of the Allen introduces visitors to other indicators of ancient woodland, including Goldilock’s Buttercup, Bitter Vetch, Wood Crane’s-bill, and Great Horsetail. The presence of Calaminarian Grassland, characterised by its soil polluted with industrial metals, adds another layer of interest. In this area, delicate Mountain Pansies flourish.

For those seeking a longer walk, a well-signposted trail to Morralee Tarn is recommended. Once a Victorian boating lake, it has transformed into a rich wetland habitat. Timing your visit right may reward you with sightings of White Water-lily, Mare’s-tail, and the intriguing Marsh Cinquefoil.

Mountain Pansy (Viola lutea)
Early-purple Orchid (Orchis mascula)
Toothwort (Lathraea squamaria)
Wood Crane’s-bill (Geranium sylvaticum)
Bird’s-nest Orchid (Neottia nidus-avis)

7: Letah Wood, Hexham


Letah Wood, believed to be Northumberland’s last surviving ‘Daffodil wood,’ offers a spectacular display with its abundant Wild Daffodils blanketing the woodland floor each spring.

Beyond the captivating display of Daffodils, the wood boasts a rich diversity of woodland wildflowers. Visitors can expect to encounter Giant Bellflower, Wood Anemone, Pignut, Lords-and-Ladies and the iconic English Bluebell. A special highlight for those exploring the woodland is the much rarer Herb-paris.

Additionally, Letah Wood is a haven for those interesting in trees, ferns and bryophytes. While these aspects are beyond the scope of this post, they contribute to the overall richness of the wood.

Wild Daffodiils (Narcissus pseudonarcissus subsp. pseudonarcissus) at Letah Wood

8: Hen Hole, College Valley


The Hen Hole stands out as arguably the most spectacular gorge in Northumberland, and earns its place as one of the county’s top botanical sites. While its remoteness may pose a challenge, the awe-inspiring scenery and diverse flora make it well worth the effort. Before embarking on the journey, be sure to pack sturdy walking boots and ample snacks for the hike that awaits!

Hen Hole has been visited by many notable botanists over the years, from Baker & Tate to George Swan, and is celebrated for its rare arctic-alpine plants, including Alpine Saw-wort and Roseroot. While these flowers are elusive, the journey toward the gorge from Mounthooley offers more obvious specialities such as Alpine Willowherb, Pale Forget-me-not, Starry Saxifrage, and Butterwort. Be sure to stick close to the College Burn – most of the more interesting plants seldom grow far from water.

The more abundant flora of Hen Hole includes familiar species like Heath Bedstraw, Goldenrod, Heath Spotted-orchid, Wild Thyme, and Wood Crane’s-bill. Beyond those, however, the gorge treats visitors to superb views, scenic waterfalls, and a plethora of other wildlife, ensuring that the journey is rewarding in any season.

Goldenrod (Solidago virgaurea)
Wood Crane’s-bill (Geranium sylvaticum)
Butterwort (Pinguicula vulgaris)
Heath Spotted-orchid (Dactylorhiza maculata)
Starry Saxifrage (Micranthes stellaris)

9: Cullernose Point, Howick


Cullernose Point, located between Craster and Howick, is a relatively small but ecologically significant coastal site. As part of the Northumberland Coast Path, it provides easy access for visitors interested in exploring its clifftop grasslands, which boast noteworthy populations of Purple Milk-vetch and Spring Squill – a charming little bulb with bright blue, starry flowers.

Beyond these botanical highlights, the clifftop grasslands support additional plants including Sea Mouse-ear, Thrift, Wild Thyme, Heath Milkwort, Heath Groundsel, and other flora characteristic of coastal environments.

The small size of this site mean it is often better suited as a pitstop, perhaps on route to more floriferous sites further North?

Spring Squill (Scilla verna)

10: Scotch Gill Wood, Morpeth


Scotch Gill Wood, situated just outside the market town of Morpeth, stands out as a prime example of semi-natural ancient woodland. Notably, this woodland offers a much more accessible destination for those interested in exploring our woodland flora.

The wood is home to a variety of plant species characteristic of older woodlands. Careful exploration might reveal Toothwort, Goldilocks Buttercup, Spurge-laurel, Yellow Star-of-Bethlehem, and the intriguing Mochstatel, among others.

In addition to the vibrant species listed above, Scotch Gill Wood hosts several less colorful but equally interesting plants, notably the Rough Horsetail. Damp areas within the wood add another layer of botanical interest with the occurrence of Hemlock Water-dropwort, Brooklime, and Large Bittercress.

The accessibility of Scotch Gill Wood makes it an ideal destination for those seeking a woodland walk without venturing too far from civilisation.

Yellow Star-of-Bethlehem (Gagea lutea)

Planning a trip in search of wildflowers? Remember to record them. Doing so helps conservationists monitor populations and protect rich and important sites like those mentioned in this post.

For a little more information on logging your finds, please see below.

Where to send your sightings

Exploring the Fascinating Flora of Lindisfarne

I have visited the Holy Island of Lindisfarne many times to admire the sites birdlife, chase rarities and even seek out insects, but never to appreciate its diverse and interesting flora.

Lindisfarne is well known as an excellent site for those interested in botany, it’s unspoilt beaches, sprawling dune slacks, fields and expansive areas of salt marsh reminiscent of a time before man altered Britain’s coastal habitats beyond recognition. Home to many intriguing and, in some cases, scarce species, the botanical community here is diverse enough to keep visitors enthralled for hours. As it did us on overdue visit this week.

Brace yourselves, this could be a long one…

Arriving on Lindisfarne and heading first for the quiet reaches of The Snook, we set off in search of the islands most sought after plant species: the Lindisfarne Helleborine. First discovered on Holy Island in 1958, this understated but beautiful orchid is endemic here and in July, blooms in small numbers across the Western tip of the island.

During a half-hour search of the Snook, we were able to locate just a single orchid. Stumbling across the delicate, green and white flower atop a small mound where it grew conspicuously amongst the Marram. Perhaps a little muted, at least compared to the island’s larger, showier orchids, but a pleasure to behold nevertheless.

Moving on to investigate the nearby dune slacks, it seemed we had timed our visit perfectly to coincide with the emergence of another, arguably more appealing orchid: the Marsh Helleborine. Blooming in their hundreds right across the Western tip of the island, these orchids made for quite the sight – purplish flowers contrasting with the suppressed tones of many other Helleborines, and boasting an exceedingly frilly ‘lip’. These locally abundant flowers are by all accounts a real beauty.

Now well and truly hostage to the ‘orchid fever’, a search for the islands other orchid species revealed good numbers of vibrant Pyramidal Orchid, now reaching their peak; while other species observed included Common Spotted Orchid, Northern Marsh Orchid and Common Twayblade – the latter three now appearing somewhat haggard and spent. No matter.

Orchids are special but by no means are the be-all and end-all of the trip to Lindisfarne, and during our stay, many other interesting species were to be found. None more so than a single specimen of Scots Lovage found nestled in a sheltered area of the dunes. An Arctic plant, Northumberland marks the most Southerly limit of its UK range and records from Lindisfarne have been few and far between since 1985.

Here too, the succulent stalks of Sea Sandwort protruded from the bare sand, reminiscent of something you would find in the houseplant section of your local garden centre.

Back in the dune slacks and we were delighted to encounter the deep-pink flowers of Seaside Centaury; whilst a low-growing purple flower turned out to be Purple Milk-vetch, another first for this amateur botanist. I confess, I almost mistook it for one of the countless Self-heal flowers showing en masse here…

Common Valarian and Tansy were observed here too and the wetter areas were flush with the delicate yellow flowers of Lesser Spearwort and the curious, circular leaves of Marsh Pennywort.

At ground-level, Creeping Willow was conspicuous and a few large areas of blooming Hop Trefoil provided interest.

Departing the Western reaches of Lindisfarne, we headed East to the village. Passing through, it was difficult not to appreciate the plant diversity present in the high garden walls – old stone painted a wonderful mix of greens by the fronds of countless ferns. Here, we found a good range of common species, including Wall-rue, Maidenhair Spleenwort and Polypody; while it was nice to see both Biting and White Stonecrop in bloom. The island’s abundant Wallflowers had gone over, now displaying a glut of pea-like seed pods.

Departing the thronging village streets, a long walk around the Eastern side of the island ensued, taking in the iconic castle en route. In the vicinity of the castle, we stumbled across a nice clump of blooming Harebell alongside Thrift and a pretty example of what I think could be Dwarf Mallow – far daintier than its hulking cousin found growing here too. The castle walls were draped in an impressive display of Red Valarian and both Sea and Buck’s-horn Plantain were noted.

Attempting to curtail this particular botanical tale, towards the North Shore of the island highlights included large expanses of Wild Thyme and Common Cottongrass, as well as what I think could have been Slender Thistle (I really must practice my thistles). Grassier areas proved productive too with an impressive display of Meadow Vetchling interspersed with the pink blooms of Red Bartsia and, in select places, the familiar flowers of Field Scabious. Finally, the buried remnants of an old wall held Carline Thistle – a species I have seen further afield but never before in my native Northumberland.

Of course, no trip to Lindisfarne would be complete absent an encounter with the omnipresent Pirri-Pirri-bur which blights the island. Originating from Australia, this tenacious invader was observed right across the site; though only twice did I fall foul of its hooked burs. Controlling this species presents many problems and it seems unlikely that it will be going anywhere anytime soon, despite the best efforts of those who manage the reserve.

Of course, where there are wildflowers, there will also be pollinators and it would be rude not to cast the spotlight on a few of the insects observed throughout the day. In particular, this superb Dark-green Fritillary delighted as it nectared from the blooms of Creeping Thistle. Other butterflies observed include many Small Heath, Ringlet, Meadow Brown and Common Blue, alongside smaller numbers of Small Tortoiseshell, Red Admiral and Large White.

Dark Green Fritillary (Speyeria aglaja)