Askham Bog
Askham Bog, the oldest and perhaps most prestigious Trust reserve is renowned for its ancient relict fen and bog flora and fauna, a rare and extraordinary combination. Askham Bog is a unique meeting place for wetland plants and animals from the south and east on one hand, and the north and west on the other. Some of the specialities include Great fen sedge, bog myrtle, water violet and gingerbread sedge.
The quality of the Bog's insect life outshines even that of its plants. Some of the beetles and flies are found in very few other places, for example the marsh carpet and dentated pug moths. In the winter large flocks of redpoll and siskin join the woodcock and lesser spotted woodpeckers that breed in summer. The reserve is a good place to get a view of roe deer.
Management aims to keep a variety of different wooded and open habitats. Some meadows are mown, while others are grazed. Regenerating birch and alder scrub is cut back. Dams have been installed on some ditches to keep the water table high and prevent and bog from drying out.
What's there – facilities?
Approximately 1 mile of boardwalk with interpretation boards, however unfortunately the boardwalk is not currently accessible to wheelchair users. Car parking is available at the entrance to reserve.
How to get there?
Askham Bog is 2 miles south-west of York city centre. From the eastbound A64, take the A1036, follow the road the to traffic lights. Turn left into the car park just before the next set of lights see map.
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