Roydon Common National Nature Reserve

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Overview

Roydon Common NNR is the largest remaining area of heathland and valley mire in Norfolk and is a mixture of dry and wet heath, valley mire, rough pasture and woodland habitats. At least 15 species of dragonfly occur at Roydon, including the rare black darter, for which this is one of only two breeding sites in Norfolk. More than 30 species of butterfly have been seen including white admiral, brown argus, and both green and purple hairstreak. Around 450 species of moth have been recorded and the impressive minotaur beetle is also found. Reptiles, including the adder, are also present. Numerous rare and interesting plants occur, but perhaps the greatest spectacle occurs in August and early September when the extensive stands of heather are in flower. Many birds frequent the common, with nightjars and woodlarks nesting in good numbers. In winter there is usually a small roost of hen harriers, and the occasional merlin is seen.

Location

Grimston

About the area

The North Norfolk Coast is designated an Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty and probably the finest of its kind in Europe. Here you’ll find a string of quaint villages and small towns – Holkham, Wells-next-the-Sea and Cley next the Sea are 21st-century favourites, while Sheringham and Cromer are classic examples of a good old-fashioned seaside resort where grand Victorian hotels look out to sea.

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Roydon Common National Nature Reserve

Grimston

01603 625540

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Roydon Common National Nature Reserve

Recommended by

Overview

Roydon Common NNR is the largest remaining area of heathland and valley mire in Norfolk and is a mixture of dry and wet heath, valley mire, rough pasture and woodland habitats. At least 15 species of dragonfly occur at Roydon, including the rare black darter, for which this is one of only two breeding sites in Norfolk. More than 30 species of butterfly have been seen including white admiral, brown argus, and both green and purple hairstreak. Around 450 species of moth have been recorded and the impressive minotaur beetle is also found. Reptiles, including the adder, are also present. Numerous rare and interesting plants occur, but perhaps the greatest spectacle occurs in August and early September when the extensive stands of heather are in flower. Many birds frequent the common, with nightjars and woodlarks nesting in good numbers. In winter there is usually a small roost of hen harriers, and the occasional merlin is seen.

Location

Grimston

About the area

Area image

The North Norfolk Coast is designated an Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty and probably the finest of its kind in Europe. Here you’ll find a string of quaint villages and small towns – Holkham, Wells-next-the-Sea and Cley next the Sea are 21st-century favourites, while Sheringham and Cromer are classic examples of a good old-fashioned seaside resort where grand Victorian hotels look out to sea.

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Nearby places to stay

View all (8)