"You Are Here" At Marshall's Arm Nature Reserve - Kingsmead, UK - 'You Are Here' Maps on Waymarking.com

Marshall's Arm
Local Nature Reserve

Marshall's Arm became the first Local Nature Reserve in Vale Royal in 1998 and takes its name from the Marshall family who lived at Hartford Greenbank Manor from the 1700s until the early 1900s. The Arm is a loop of the old River Weaver wnich meandered towards Northwich until the early 1700's, when the growing salt trade led to demands for the river to be straightened making it easier for large ships to pass through carrying salt, coal and other merchandise for local industry.

The site which covers over 14 hectares can be divided into distinct habitats; woodland, grassland, wetland and open water, all, of which possess different landscape quality and wildlife value.

Clough Wood and Greenbank Wood are thought to be remnants of the ancient hunting Forest of Mara which dates back to the Norman Conquest. Within the woodland you will see large oak, beech and sycamore. In spring bluebells, dogs mercury and wild garlic dominate the woodland floor.

The open water and wetlands teem with life, up to 10 varieties of Dragonflies and Damsel Flies can be seen in the summer months in the reeds and adjoining meadows.

A local management group helps to look after this area. This help includes planning, tackling problems and carrying out practical tasks to care for Marshall's Arm for local people and wildlife. We need your help to make this work.