Whether you're strolling this month for romance, relaxation or getting the kids to let off a bit of steam, these walks are some of Yorkshire Wildlife Trust’s favourites at local reserves.
Easy:
Potteric Carr
Wetland reserves are always wonderful in the winter, filled with thousands of overwintering birds and glimmering in the cold winter sunlight – these are some of the best places to watch the spectacular flocks of starling murmurations which gather in staggering displays before roosting at dusk in winter. We can recommend North Cave Wetlands, Staveley and Wheldrake Ings – but Potteric Carr, Doncaster, is one of the jewels in our crown.
Famed for its wetland birds including bitterns and marsh harriers, explore the mosaic of habitats and enjoy the stunning vistas. At 200 hectares Potteric is one of our biggest reserves, with a network of fully-accessible paths with pre-marked routes varying between one and four miles allowing for however many hours of walking you feel comfortable doing – and the opportunity to get a hot brew with a lovely lakeside view at the end!
The Lines Way
The Lines way is a stunning green corridor, 3.5 miles long, connecting wild spaces and communities. It links Garforth to Allerton Bywater, but you can join at Kippax and Great Preston.
Suitable for wheelchair users and pushchairs, the route connects Letchmire Pastures, Hollinghurst Wood, Owl Wood and Pit Plantation, and Townclose Hills nature reserves. Overwintering songbirds are a winter highlight – keep your ears out for long-tailed tits, bullfinches and linnets.
Start at Ninelands Ln, Garforth, Leeds LS25 2AN, or at Park Ln, Allerton Bywater, Castleford WF10 2AT.
Medium
Birch Wood
Birch Wood is a stunning ancient woodland. Facing across the picturesque valley towards the roots of the Hambleton Hills, it is seven miles north of Helmlsey. The reserve boasts some of the most spectacular views in the area. Winter offers a whole host of wildlife experiences too, including great spotted woodpeckers and stoats – which on rare occasions have their white winter coats.
Parking is available in a large layby just past the reserve entrance, and there is a network of footpaths that help you tailor your walk. Please note that there are steep, uneven and unsurfaced paths throughout the woodland, and dogs are not permitted.
Please take care, plan and prepare to enjoy the shorter days and outdoors responsibly, as winter weather can quickly change and the temperature can plummet at dusk.
Details of all routes at ywt.org.uk/nature-reserves
