)
)
Our Wildlife Trail
Our Wildlife Trail was opened by author, naturalist and UEA graduate Mark Cocker in February 2012.
It was made possible by a grant from the Big Lottery Fund’s Community Wildlife programme. The trail follows existing paths on the edge of the campus and along the banks of the River Yare. It explains the biodiversity of the area, identify wildlife and show how the conservation of the site is managed.
The creation of the UEA Wildlife Trail is a fabulous asset for Norwich residents, allowing us all to experience the natural environment right on our doorstep.
- Mark Cocker
There are four sections to the trail covering different habitats; using existing pathways around the campus and river valley to highlight conservation issues and some of the key habitats and species. Some species are easy to see and some are more challenging!
The four trails are maintained by our volunteers. Staff and students have been involved with conservation work on the campus marshland since October 2010, and volunteers continue to meet regularly.
At the opening event, Dr Iain Barr’s (School of Biological Sciences) welcoming speech was beautifully interrupted by the sight of a young otter fishing in the Broad: a wonderful wildlife encounter.
With partner organisations including Friends of Eaton Park and the Yare Valley Society, the project is a good example of how the University works alongside local community groups.
Find out more
Email the Sustainability Team to get involved.
Uea Tree Trail
The Tree Trail and accompanying map (found below) were developed by the Sustainability Team and Tom Everett, Landscape Manager, in collaboration with the 2018 Norfolk Festival of Nature and Prof Tom Williamson.
Local artists Alexandra Last and David Luckhurst created the trees and the campus map respectively, with the design delivered by Anne Reekie.
The Boardwalk at UEA - how we are raising funds to repair this crucial link on our green campus
The Boardwalk is an important route that links the UEA broad to the University.
It was closed in January 2024 due to safety concerns, highlighting the need for it to be sustainably repaired with more durable materials.
Since that time, an alternative route has been in place for walkers to enjoy, linking the UEA broad via the pathway alongside Strawberry Field. Feedback from the community who visit and love our beautiful green spaces on Campus expresses how deeply the boardwalk is loved and how sorely its benefits are missed.
UEA’s Development, Alumni and Campaigns Team (DAC) have been working closely with UEA Estates to ensure that this popular circular trail around the broad can be re-opened to the public at the earliest opportunity without compromising on sustainability or disturbing the wildlife.
Sourcing funding for the Boardwalk is a key priority. The DAC Team is working with the Norwich City Council, Norfolk County Council, and local community groups, such as the Yare Valley Society and Norwich Fringe Project. You can find more information on the boardwalk, its benefits, and how to support the restoration of this nature trail at Restore our Boardwalk.
)
Wildlife Trail 1: Fen and Wet Woodland
)
Wildlife Trail 2: Woodland and Grass Meadow
)
Wildlife Trail 3: UEA Broad
)