You Are Here - Holwell Mineral Line Nature Reserve - Holwell, Leicestershire - 'You Are Here' Maps on Waymarking.com

A You Are Here map and information board at the entrance to the Holwell Mineral Line Nature Reserve, Holwell.

"The reserve, just under a kilometre long, has a diverse collection of flora and fauna, ranging from that characteristic of dry grassland to species of scrub and marsh.

The railway line, opened in 1876, was used to transport ironstone from the Holwell quarries to Holwell Works. The line was closed in the 1960s, when mining finally ceased in the area.

The grassy ride running through the centre of the reserve is edged with scrub on either side. White Clover, Black Medic and Tufted Vetch are found amongst the short grass in the centre of the path.

In longer vegetation grow species such as Meadow Crane’s-bill, Red Campion and Common Spotted-orchid. In February a large display of SnoWdrops can be seen at the entrance.

Ash, Hawthorn, Willow, Birch and Guelder-rose line the path, with Wood Avens, Herb Robert and Creeping Cinquefoil growing beneath. The scrub attracts a Variety of nesting birds including Willow Warbler, Tree Creeper, Blackcap, Chiff-chaff and Lesser Whitethroat.

To the east of the main ride a mosaic of marshy and dry grassland adds to the diversity of the reserve.

The dry limestone grassland, unaffected by modern agricultural practices, supports species such as Common Sorrel, Meadow Buttercup, Hop Trefoil and Red Clover. The marshy habitats support Marsh Marigold, Sedges, Horsetails, Brooklime and Ragged-robin. Many species of dragonfly have been recorded in these areas including Large Red Damselfly, Brown Hawker and Ruddy Darter.

The diverse flora attracts many species of butterfly including Comma, Small Tortoiseshell, Common Blue and Small Skipper. This is also a great site for moths with over 90 species recorded so far.

Please take the opportunity to Visit the other two faScinating nature reserves at Holwell, North Quarry and Brown’s Hill Quarry."

SOURCE - information board

Location Name: Holwell Mineral Line Nature Reserve

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A photo of either you or your GPS at the site is welcomed but not required.

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