Photographer, Peter Lau, takes us around another of his favourite accessible strolls.
Cromwell Bottom Nature Reserve is located between Brighouse and Elland in West Yorkshire and brings together Eddystone Lighthouse, the heritage of the industrial ages, and biodiversity.
The site occupies what was a quarry, along with a tip for ash, from a now long-gone power station, and a landfill site. Today, there is little evidence of the site’s former uses, except for ground vents that allow gases to escape from the material buried underneath the ground, or the bridges, that now form part of the footpaths over the river Calder.
There is evidence of a former canal, built by James Smeaton in 1759 – and Smeaton later designed the Eddystone Lighthouse, that stood from 1759 until 1882.
Enthusiastic about nature
The whole reserve is a real gem and is arguably, the most important wildlife site in Calderdale. A relatively new nature reserve, established in 2000. The management and volunteers of the nature reserve founded the Cromwell Bottom Nature Group in 2011. A registered charity, they are a strong community and very enthusiastic about all things nature, going above and beyond what one often finds to ensure as much of the site is fully inclusive and accessible for visitors, regardless of your abilities.
It is hard to believe the past uses of the site as you cast your eyes over the current mix of wetlands, woodlands and meadows that are now well established. The rich alkaline soil has encouraged a broad mix of plants to thrive.
It is a super accessible place to go, to see and to photograph dragonflies, damselflies, butterflies and other insects. The site is also excellent for spotting mammals and many types of birds, such as bullfinch, dunnock, woodpeckers, redpoll, buzzards and kestrels. I always keep an eye open for deer, fox, stoat and weasels.
Swing gates are fitted with Radar key locks, allowing people using mobility equipment to pass fairly easily. Many paths are fully accessible – where obstructions cannot be changed, you will find a more accessible alternative route.
The visitor centre is open Sundays, and often Tuesdays and Thursdays. You can check online for further information. Search: ‘Cromwell Bottom Nature Reserve’. They have a small cafe (donations only), ample parking and a Changing Places facility.
Cromwell Bottom Nature Reserve is a place to explore on foot or on wheels to find your own favourite corner of this gem.
See also: www.accessiblenatureuk.com/routes-in-and-around-yorkshire
For further information contact Pete at: www.accessiblenatureuk.com or email: peter.lau@sky.com
