Sprotbrough Flash Nature Reserve

This 28 hectare reserve is made up of a range of diverse habitats that include open water, woodland, grassland and, in a disused railway cutting, outcrops of limestone. The River Don runs alongside the reserve. The Flash’s emergent vegetation is typical of a subsidence flash of 80+ years. Deciduous woodland with its ride of yew is botanically very species rich and, coupled with Magnesian Limestone grassland, the area holds over 480 species of trees, plants and grasses. A number of the invertebrates are listed in the Red Data Book.

Of the birds, around 112 species are recorded annually, the reserve being a favoured resting place for migrants. 65 species breed including great crested grebe, gadwall, reed warbler, and green and great spotted woodpecker. Larger mammals include deer, fox and hare. Six species of bat are present. Molluscs, fungi, mosses and lichens are all well represented. Even the once polluted River Don now hosts coarse fishing matches.

The reserve lies along the Don fault, which dissects the Magnesian Limestone belt from east to west forming the Don Gorge. Outcrops of Upper and Lower Limestone are dominant. Ice Age boulder clays have been deposited on the northern slopes with the lower floor alluvium deposits laid towards the end of the Ice Age from the upper reaches of the Don and Dearne Valleys. Other Trust reserves close to Sprotbrough Flash include Denaby Ings, two miles, and Potteric Carr, three miles.

The woodland is managed to allow the invertebrate population to flourish as is the grassland for its flora. The aim is to maintain the wetland for as many species of resident and passage birds as possible.

Directions

From the A1(M) take the A630 exit at Junction 36, following signs for Rotherham, into Warmsworth. At the first set of lights turn right into Mill Lane. Cross the River Don and turn left at the bridge toll house. There is limited parking behind the toll house.
Parking is allowed at the far end of the Boat Inn car park, providing the visitor intends to make use of the Inn’s facilities. Walk upstream along the towpath for 200 yards to the reserve. Alternatively, walk in front of the Boat Inn to the entrance where the road ends.