Coatham Marsh

This Tees Valley Wildlife Trust nature reserve is a rich mosaic of ancient saltmarsh, freshwater marsh, lakes and wildflower meadows crossed by a freshwater fleet. It is important not only locally as a large expanse of coastal wetland, but also nationally as a resting stop on a coastal bird migration route.

The southern half has two lakes, Round Lake and Long Lake. The northern half of the reserve is relict salt marsh. More than 200 species have been recorded. Being en route to South Gare, a quick look at the marsh is always worthwhile but it takes an hour or more to cover the reserve adequately.