Yorkshire Wildlife Trust

The reserve of 77 hectares is next to the disused Thorpe Marsh Power Station, on flat land near the River Don. The main features of the reserve are the lake, with its two islands and marginal wetland habitat, and the unimproved pasture with 'ridge and furrow' drainage dating back over 100 years. This is typical of poorly drained lowland grassland, once common in this area.

Having been undisturbed for so long they have a rich flora. On the drier 'ridges' frequent species are pepper-saxifrage, sneezewort and great burnet. In the wetter 'furrows' tubular water-dropwort is common. Scattered hawthorn scrub has invaded the grassland and provides feeding and nesting sites for linnet, redpoll, greenfinch and whitethroat.

The railway embankment was built from limestone ballast and covered with furnace ash. Dense scrub has become established and goldcrest, long tailed tit and willow warbler may often be heard. Where the scrub opens out, wild carrot, cowslip and common spotted-orchid can be found amongst the rough grass. The latter is a spectacular sight in June/July.

Reserve Management

Aims to:

• Maintain the existing habitats creating a wildfowl and wader haven

• Clear scrub on a rotational system

• Upkeep hedges and fences

Facilities

• Permissive footpaths

• Three main walking routes

• Five viewing hides

• Limited car parking on Marsh Lane, with access via the bridleway, or at Norwood Pumping Station gate.

• Inn food and cafe in Barnby Dun

Downloads

Click here to see a map of the reserve (PDF).