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Nature Reserves

Fields

The borough has seven Local Nature Reserves and one National Nature Reserve, all designated for their important features.

All of our nature reserves have free admission and are open 7 days a week.

A number of events and activtiies take place at each Nature Reserve throughout the year.  Visit the Events page for further details.

Barrow Hill Local Nature Reserve

Barrow Hill Local Nature Reserve is one of the most significant and well-loved areas of green space in the Borough.

It supports our largest and most diverse area of grassland, ancient woodland, ponds with populations of Great Crested Newt and other important habitats and species. 

Saltwells Local Nature Reserve

Bluebells at Saltwells Wood

Lady Dudley planted Saltwells Wood in the eighteenth century to hide the scars of coal mining and this is now Saltwells Nature Reserve.

Within the wood is Doulton's Claypit with spectacular cliffs showing a section through the rocks of the Middle and Lower Coal Measures. 

Bumble Hole and Warrens Hall Local Nature Reserve

The area as a whole is unique, with its variety of historical features, water pools, wild flowers and birds utilising the quiet canal route. Bumble Hole and Warrens Hall Local Nature Reserve has areas of open grass, ideal for family recreation and smaller shaded and un-shaded areas perfect for picnics.

Wren's Nest National Nature Reserve

Wren's Nest National Nature Reserve is of international importance for its geology and is visited and studied by geologists from all over
the world.

Over 400 million years ago, the area where Dudley now stands was covered by coral reefs and tropical seas providing an environment for the famous fossils we find there today.

Cotwell End Local Nature Reserve

Cotwall End Local Nature Reserve has a rich history and geology associated with its agricultural and industrial past. The site has some important wildlife with nationally rare flora and fauna.

Birmimgham and Black Country Biodiveristy Action Plan

The  Birmingham and Black Country Biodiversity Action Plan (LBAP) was produced in 2000 by the Birmingham and Black Country Biodiversity Action Plan Steering Partnership. 

It identifies the priorities for wildlife conservation in the area. It also sets targets to safeguard and enhance this for future generations.

For a copy of the plan, download the attachment at the bottom of the page.  

Buckpool and Fens Pools Nature Reserve 

Buckpool and Fens Pools Nature Reserve has the largest area of open water in Dudley and the Fens Pools are important for migrating and over-wintering waterfowl, regularly attracting ducks such as Shoveler and Gadwall. The smaller ponds north of the Pools are the habitat of huge numbers of frogs, toads and newts, including the Great Crested Newt.

Fens Pools Views