Bird PlacesRSPB reserve · Ashbourne, Derbyshire
Carsington Water birdwatching guide
Carsington Water is a large reservoir on the southern edge of the Peak District, with wildlife centres and hides overlooking shallow bays that draw passage waders in autumn and diving duck through the winter. The surrounding grassland and scrub add breeding warblers and tree sparrows, and a surfaced trail runs the full circuit for those who want the long walk.
Key facts
- Habitat
- wetland
- Size
- Not recorded
- Entry fee (adult)
- Not published
- Entry fee (child)
- Not published
- Membership required
- No
- Hides
- Not published
- Wheelchair access
- Not verified
- Car park
- Yes
- Toilets
- Yes
- Dogs
- Allowed
- Status
- open
- Best seasons
- autumn, winter
Species by season
| Season | Species | Likelihood | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| spring | Great Crested Grebe (Podiceps cristatus) | common | — |
| spring | Oystercatcher (Haematopus ostralegus) | frequent | — |
| winter | Goldeneye (Bucephala clangula) | frequent | — |
| winter | Teal (Anas crecca) | common | — |
Getting there
Ashbourne, Derbyshire
View on OpenStreetMap · Official website
Facilities & opening
Opening hours not recorded — check the official website.
Frequently asked questions
What can I see at Carsington Water in autumn?
Falling water levels expose muddy margins that attract passage waders, alongside building numbers of wintering diving duck on the open water.
Nearby reserves (all organisations)
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Information last updated 25 July 2026.