I started off by travelling on one of the hottest days in May to Redley Cliff Nature Reserve, by Caswell Bay. This time I was lucky enough to be able to get a lift to the reserve, but it is accessible from Swansea centre by bus too.

Redley Cliff is nestled on the right hand side of Caswell Bay. It is a relatively small reserve but incredibly species dense. The reserve is a diverse mix of limestone cliffs, woodland and grassland. The South Wales Coast Path also runs right through it. There is a gravel path trail through the reserve and out onto the cliffs. I walked along this for quite some time observing what was around me. I spent some time in the sun looking at all the living things in the reserve.

Because of the heat, the majority of animals seemed to be hidden away, only heard by the loud calls of birdsong. I did however see a buzzard and a crow swooping, a contrast from the bright blue sky that I was looking at. And then looking down, you are able to see and hear the waves lapping at the cliffs which provides a sense of ease. Places like this are a full sensory experience.

The woods provided me with most needed shade from the hot sun. So many plants thrive in these woods which makes for a fun spotting game! Some of the flora I spotted on my walk were Wild garlic, Bluebells, Wild strawberries, Oak and Hazel trees, Bird’s foot trefoil, Herb robert, Ribwort plantain and Gorse.

If you’re lucky, Stonechat and Yellowhammer birds have been spotted by previous visitors. Keep an ear out for the Stonechat call which sounds exactly like its name – two stones being banged together! The Yellowhammer call is a very high pitched trill.

Overall, this visit to Redley Cliff was a lovely break and really helped bring a sense of calmness to my week. I would recommend to fellow students, especially during this stressful exam period!