Follow the footpath leading off to the right next to tennis courts (signposted Sheepen Road). Through a kissing gate the path opens out into a grassy area with picnic tables and benches.

Red Admiral

This path runs alongside an Elm and Elder hedge where Wild Rose, Hawthorn and Aspen abound. It is home to flitting sparrows and Meadow Brown and Red Admiral butterflies in summer. Notice the flat valley bottom on either side of the river. The field to the left is still farmed and the grazing meadows are used for cattle rearing and hay production.

Alder

Cherry, Hazel, Walnut and American Red Oak trees have been planted. The bed has not always flowed on its present course, but has moved from side to side. Notice the water worn pebbles where the ground has been disturbed, deposited by the river when it flows further north. Look out for orange soldier beetles on the Hogweed growing alongside the river.

River Colne

Cross the footbridge and look down into the clear river which flows slowly across level ground. Both emergent and submerged vegetation are well established. You should see Arrowhead and its characteristic leaves, Bulrush (the real Bulrush, not the cigar topped variety), yellow Water Lily, Greater Willowherb and Purple Loosestrife.

Banded Demoiselle Damselfly

Fish including Sticklebacks, Minnows, Bream and Carp sometimes feed here attracting the attentions of the vividly coloured Kingfisher. In summer showy, electric blue or green Banded Demoiselle Damselflies are abundant, indicating that the water is unpolluted.




Birdlife to look out for includes Swans, Ducks, Seagulls, Sedge Warblers, Swifts, Swallows, Housemartins and wading birds. Early in the morning you might be lucky enough to see a Watervole. Looking ahead, in the distance is the green roof of the Victorian Jumbo Water Tower.