Grattons Park

A 7.7-hectare Local Nature Reserve featuring woodland, meadows, and the Gatwick Stream. Managed by Crawley Borough Council and the Gatwick Greenspace Partnership.

Grattons Park is a hidden gem nestled between Pound Hill and Three Bridges in Crawley. This local nature reserve follows the Gatwick Stream through patches of woodland, open meadows, and wildflower-rich clearings. Though compact, the park delivers a rich diversity of species and quiet photographic moments. FeatherFrame includes Grattons Park as a perfect example of how urban nature corridors can offer intimate glimpses into wildlife life cycles—right on the doorstep of suburban life.

Wrens, Woodpeckers, and River Scenes

Birders can expect regular visits from robins, dunnocks, and blackbirds, while great spotted woodpeckers and green woodpeckers can be found deeper in the woodland. In spring and summer, warblers sing from the trees lining the stream. Dragonflies, bees, and butterflies animate the meadows, while foxes and deer occasionally wander the quiet paths at dawn. FeatherFrame photographers favour Grattons Park for its calm atmosphere, making it ideal for capturing birds in soft light and experimenting with layered compositions.

Best Times to Visit:

  • Spring: Birds in full song, new growth, soft river reflections

  • Summer: Insect activity, lush greenery, warm low light

  • Autumn: Golden leaves, fungi, and quieter paths

  • Winter: Bare trees, bird feeder hotspots, and clear visibility for mammals

Plan Your Visit

  • Entrances from St Mary’s Drive, Somerville Drive, and Old Hollow; free access all year

  • Easy walking paths with a mix of shaded woods and open glades

  • Best gear: 200–400mm lens for small birds, macro for insects and fungi, and a fast prime for storytelling portraits

  • FeatherFrame tip: follow the river early in the morning—sunrise light cuts through the trees for perfect framing

Did you know?

Grattons Park sits on a wildlife corridor that connects local parks to larger nature sites around Crawley, supporting the movement of birds, insects, and small mammals. Its restoration has improved flood resilience and pollinator habitat. FeatherFrame features Grattons to spotlight how even small reserves can carry ecological importance and offer beautiful scenes for mindful wildlife photography.