Things to see and do at Stockbridge Marsh

Swan on the River Test at Stockbridge Marsh, Hampshire — Swan on the River Test at Stockbridge Marsh | © National Trust Images/Chris Lacey

Situated just behind the High Street of Stockbridge, Stockbridge Marsh is a Site of Special Scientific Interest (SSSI). It lies within the peaty river valley of the River Test and has Marsh Court stream, a tributary of the Test, running along its western boundary.

A rich wetland habitat

The Marsh consists of unimproved wet grassland and fen-like vegetation, with herb-rich hummocky areas across the site. The site is a haven for bird species such as reed and sedge warblers, swans, moorhens, kingfishers, mistle thrush and reed buntings.

Water voles slip secretively around the edges of the river reeds and butterfly species such as tortoiseshell, small copper and marbled whites can be found basking among the vegetation. You may also notice yellow meadow ant hills, especially to the southern end of the site, which are an important indicator of ancient grasslands.

The Marsh is 'common land' with ancient manorial rights dating back to the Norman Conquest - anyone who lives in the borough of Stockbridge is a commoner of this land.

People in the distance walking beside the River Test at Stockbridge Marsh, Hampshire — Walking beside the River Test at Stockbridge Marsh | © National Trust Images/Chris Lacey

Summer at Stockbridge Marsh

Old gravel deposits have created a chalk grassland community of harebells and other similar species on raised trackways, while the wetter, more fen-like areas contain peat-loving plants.

Brown trout can be seen jumping here and look out for swans and their signets, moorhens and water voles swimming swiftly around the reed edges.

Protecting the riverbank at Stockbridge Marsh

We’ve fenced some areas along the riverbank to allow the bank and its vegetation to recover from high footfall. You're still welcome to walk and picnic here and there are areas where people and dogs can directly access the water. Find out what we're doing to help Stockbridge Marsh recover

Help us care for the countryside

Please be aware that camping is not permitted on Stockbridge Marsh, and it's not suitable for bikes. You can help us look after the countryside by closing gates behind you, keeping dogs under control, not using barbecues or campfires, taking all rubbish home.