Bird PlacesRSPB reserve · Topsham, Devon
Bowling Green Marsh birdwatching guide
Bowling Green Marsh is a small field of wet grassland beside the Exe estuary that punches far above its size. As the tide covers the estuary mudflats, waders pile onto the pools in front of the hide at close range, making it one of the most reliable places in Devon to watch black-tailed godwits and wigeon without a telescope.
Key facts
- Habitat
- wetland
- Size
- Not recorded
- Entry fee (adult)
- Free
- Entry fee (child)
- Free
- Membership required
- No
- Hides
- Not published
- Wheelchair access
- Yes
- Car park
- No
- Toilets
- No
- Dogs
- Not allowed
- Status
- open
- Best seasons
- autumn, winter
Species by season
| Season | Species | Likelihood | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| autumn | Redshank (Tringa totanus) | common | — |
| autumn | Spoonbill (Platalea leucorodia) | occasional | — |
| winter | Black-tailed Godwit (Limosa limosa) | common | Large flocks roost on the marsh over high tide |
| winter | Wigeon (Mareca penelope) | common | — |
Hides at Bowling Green Marsh
Getting there
Topsham, Devon
View on OpenStreetMap · Official website
Facilities & opening
The Lookout hide open Wednesday to Sunday 10am–4pm, subject to volunteer availability
Frequently asked questions
Do I need to time a visit to Bowling Green Marsh with the tide?
Yes — the birds move onto the marsh as the estuary floods. Aim for the two hours before high tide; at low tide the marsh can be almost empty.
Is there parking at Bowling Green Marsh?
There is no reserve car park. Most visitors park in Topsham and walk about ten minutes along Bowling Green Road.
Explore more
Information last updated 25 July 2026.