About us

Watchtree Nature Reserve Ltd is a company registered in England and Wales with company number 05214585, and a Registered Charity’ (No 1127029).

Registered Office: Watchtree Nature Reserve Nr Wiggonby Carlisle Cumbria CA5 6NL.

Watchtree Nature Reserve Ltd is currently managed by twelve Volunteer Directors who meet quarterly to discuss operational business, approve and manage the annual budget and business plan with a sub management group of directors and one employee managing the day to day operation.

The Directors manage the Nature Reserve to a Business plan agreed with DEFRA (Department of the Environment, Food and Rural Affairs). The plan is agreed as part of the Notice of Proposed Development (NOPD) set by Cumbria County Council.

The Directors may propose enhancement for the habitats, public access and education provision and raise funds and donations to carry out these projects

Watchtree Nature Reserve Ltd has developed a very successful community asset over a short period of time with two members of staff and a very active volunteer force that has seen the site become a popular visitor attraction for a whole variety of reasons. Watchtree Wheelers is an especially successful enterprise within the reserve.

Watchtree Nature Reserve Ltd became a Registered Charity in January 2009

Recent Accolades

• 5* Outstanding ‘Britain in Bloom’ 5 years in a row (2012-2017)
• Inaugural winner of the National Trust’s 2016 ‘Beatrix Potter’ award for ‘Looking after the Landscape’
• 2017 Trip Advisor ‘Certification of Excellence’
• 2016 & 2017 Finalist Carlisle Living Awards ‘Best Place to Visit