King Charles III England Coast Path – Brean Seasonal Riverside Walk

This alternative route on the King Charles III England Coast Path is the route for walkers when the Brean Seasonal Riverside Walk is closed. The trail between Brean Cross Sluice and Brean Down along the banks of the River Axe is open for two months each year between 16th May to the 15th July.

Why is the route along the Brean Seasonal Riverside Walk only open for two months of the year?

Each year internationally important numbers of Redshank, Whimbrel, Shelduck, Dunlin and Teal visit while in passage or to over winter in this area, joining many other waterbirds live here or seasonally visit the area.

While here, they feed on the extensive areas of mud, sand and saltmarsh at low tide and roost at the water’s edge on saltmarsh and sea defence structures during high tides. If disturbed during this time it can deplete their energy resources leaving them vulnerable and weak.

Public access during this period when most birds are present would cause significant disturbance, especially when walkers are accompanied by dogs. Consequently, to ensure that they can feed without disturbance and overwinter safely, the King Charles III England Coast Path is closed when they are here, creating a Refuge Area where they can feed and rest safely.

For those wishing to see the birds and other wildlife during this time please visit The Great Bird Screen of Brean that runs from the southern shore of the River Axe and over the bridge to the northern shore at the sluice crossing.

Please note that when the Brean Seasonal Riverside Walk is closed there is no right of access along the banks of the River Axe between the old ferry crossing and Brean Cross Sluice. In areas where there is a pubic right of way close to the estuary, please ensure that you stay on the path. If you have a dog keep them on the path too, using a lead if necessary.

To help the birds feeding and resting here stay safe ...

• Stick to the paths and keep your dog on the path too
• Always keep your dog under close control - use a lead if you need to
• Obey the signs telling you when it’s not OK to enter the Refuge Area
• Be aware of what’s around you - if you see birds, try not to disturb them
• Take extra care at high tide when the birds roost close to the path
• If you are with children, explain why it is important for the birds to feed and rest and help them to enjoy seeing the birds while respecting their space

If birds stop feeding and look alarmed as you approach, you are too close.