Head to the rustling reedbeds and marshy meadows of Hackney Marshes and find wildlife in abundance. Situated on the edge of Kingsteignton and the River Teign, this small local nature reserve is an intriguing space to visit as spring comes into full swing, bringing its species-rich habitat variety to life.

Explore the various paths and gateways to discover the ornamental woodland, an old orchard and be sure to send little ones out to find the wooden cows resting in the meadow.

Kestrels, buzzards and snipe can be found here, as well as the uncommon emerald damselfly and a number of mammals and invertebrates. Along the river you’re likely to spot kingfishers, moorhens and herons by the water. The site also welcomes the rarer cetti’s warbler and cirl bunting.

Signed maps will help you explore and accessibility is good thanks to a network of level surfaced paths and ramped bridges suitable for wheelchairs and buggies. Some of the smaller paths through the centre of the reserve can get muddy so proceed with caution, and if in doubt, stick to the perimeter path which can be followed by heading south towards the wide gravel track that heads along the western side of the nature reserve and out towards Newton Abbot Racecourse.

At the south of the nature reserve, on the accessible path, you can take the path that goes under the train line and follow it along the Hackney Channel as it joins into the River Teign. This now disused canal was opened in 1843 for pack-horses carting clay that was excavated from Chudleigh Knighton and Kingsteignton to the cellars in the Hackney hamlet – the ruins you’ll see along the way now all that is left as a reminder of its history.

The view almost instantly opens up as you emerge on the other side – tall reedbeds standing proud and hiding various birds and wildlife as you look out under the mighty A380 road bridge out over the River Teign. Continue on this route under the road bridge until you reach the charming Passage House Inn perched on the waterside – a fantastic spot for a bite to eat and a drink inside with its large glass-frontage, or on one of the many outdoor picnic tables.