レスターフォレストイーストの湖・トップ12

Sand martinsは毎年レスターシャー州のBagworth Heath Woodカントリーパークにある人工営巣壁に戻ってきます。通常3月に到着し、夏の間営巣します。特別な「Sandmartin Pool」を備えたこの場所は、レンジャーとボランティアによって維持されており、毎年砂の岸が更新され、何百羽もの雛がそこで育てられています。

Worth a visit

In September 1867, 180 acres of land was purchased for a cost of £24,000. Most of the land required for the reservoir, dam and waterworks belonged to the Bradgate Estate. Lord Stamford insisted that a stone wall be built around the boundary to separate the deer park from the reservoir, instead of the proposed iron railings. This wall, 1,500 yards long was eventually built at a cost of 8s 10d per yard. Joseph Reeves, Head Gamekeeper, outside his house. Some of the Bradgate Estate land was part of the deer park, but most was farmland let out on very long leases. One farmer, Joseph Allen, lost virtually all his farm. Two members of the Matts family had theirs considerably reduced in size. The Gamekeeper’s house and land, together with a nearby bridge, were also in the area to be flooded. The house, together with its stables and outhouses, were demolished and the bricks sold. Part of the footpath between Anstey and Hallgates was submerged, as was the site of the old rabbit warren (or conery).

This is the Great Pit in Swithland Wood, a site shaped by centuries of slate quarrying, with origins tracing back to Roman times. The quarry was first officially recorded in the 1300s, with activity continuing until the 19th century. Due to the presence of deep water and sheer vertical walls, the quarry is extremely hazardous and completely closed to public access.

Beware of the Sheep!!!

Was pretty mucky and slippy on a gravel bike in June, although it's been a wet year

Swithland Wood is a small remnant of the original Charnwood Forest managed by part of the Bradgate Estate. As a small chunk of ancient woodland, Swithland consists of mature oak, birch, alder and lime with supports a rich variety of butterflies, moths and birds. This chunk of woodland is the type that would of previously covered all of the British mainland whilst groups of hunter gatherers moved through the landscape.

Toilets available at Bradgate Park car park ( Cropston )