Gowk Bank National Nature Reserve

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Overview

Gowk Bank NNR lies on the western bank of the upper reaches of the River Irthing, which here forms the boundary between Cumbria and Northumberland. The reserve is best known for containing one of the most diverse upland meadows in Britain, with over 185 different plant species being recorded. Species typical of northern meadow communities found here include globeflower, marsh hawks-beard,devil’s-bit scabious, grass of Parnassus,melancholy thistle and wood crane’s-bill. The population of the eyebright at Gowk Bank is probably one of the largest in the UK, and there is a very small population of the very rare small white orchids alongside the more common early purple orchids. Birds such as dipper, grey wagtail, sand martin and common sandpiper can be seen hunting for insects along the banks of the River Irthing, and crossbills are often seen or heard feeding in the adjacent forestry plantations.

Location

Gilsland

About the area

Cumbria's rugged yet beautiful landscape is best known for the Lake District National Park that sits within its boundaries. It’s famous for Lake Windermere, England’s largest lake, and Derwent Water, ‘Queen of the English Lakes', but other lesser-known areas in the south, such as the Lune Valley and the coastal towns, are secret gems of wide cobbled streets and rolling hills.

Explore Cumbria

Gowk Bank National Nature Reserve

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Gowk Bank National Nature Reserve

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