The Lizard National Nature Reserve

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Overview

The Lizard NNR covers nearly 5,000 acres of the rocky peninsula forming the southernmost tip of Britain. The heathland, coastal cliff vegetation and temporary ponds are of international importance, with over 250 species of rare and unusual plants. The ancient rocks of the Lizard form spectacular cliffs, outcrops, caves and offshore islands. In early summer the clifftop grasslands are carpeted with wildflowers, including squill, vetches, trefoils, thrift and oxeye daisies. Rarer plants include green-winged orchid, wild chives, spring sandwort and the fringed rupturewort. The Lizard has some of the most extensive areas of lowland heath in the UK. Early summer brings a carpet of orchids, violets and lousewort. In July and August the pink and yellow of gorse and heather come into flower. All four native species of heather grow here – ling, bell heather, cross-leaved heath and the rare Cornish heath. Look out too for harebells, dropwort and great burnet. The cliffs are the best place from which to see seals, and birdlife includes ravens, fulmars, kestrels, peregrines and choughs.

Location

Cross Lanes

About the area

Cornwall has just about everything – wild moorland landscapes, glorious river valley scenery, picturesque villages and miles of breathtaking coastline. Known for its popular surfing spots, the region provides ample opportunities for water sport enthusiasts, and for those who prefer to stay on land, visitor attractions like the Eden Project and the Lost Gardens of Heligan offer a lovely day out.