Ashwell Quarry and Quarry Springs

Ashwell Quarry and Quarry Springs

Ashwell Quarry and Quarry Springs

A disused quarry which supports varied chalk grassland species including orchids.

Location

Hinxworth Road
Baldock
Hertfordshire
SG7 5HX

OS Map Reference

TL 253 395
A static map of Ashwell Quarry and Quarry Springs

Know before you go

Size
3 hectares
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Entry fee

Free
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Parking information

There is a car park on the left-hand side of Love Lane (0.1 miles) when entering from Hinxwoth Road.

Walking trails

Closeby: Icknield Way

Access

Access is by permit only. Contact the Trust on 01727 858901.

Grass and bare chalk paths. Some steep slopes and steps.

Dogs

No dogs permitted

When to visit

Opening times

Open at all times

Best time to visit

April to August

About the reserve

A disused quarry supporting varied chalk grassland species including orchids. During the summer this site is full of plants such as the pyramidal orchid, field and small scabious, clustered bellflower and glaucous sedge. Deep, shaded hollows add their own interest and many of the older thorn and elder bushes support rare mosses. The adjacent Quarry Springs produce a stream of water at a consistent temperature of about ten degrees centigrade, which is the very special requirement of some of the rare species of flatworm,

PLEASE NOTE : Access is by permit only. Contact the Trust on 01727 858901.

Seasonal Highlights
Spring: 
Chiffchaff, cowslip, holly blue, willow warbler.
Summer:  Bee and pyramidal orchid, twayblade, lesser whitethroat.
Autumn: Comma, peacock, red admiral.
Winter: Blue tit, goldcrest, yellowhammer.

 

Environmental designation

Local Wildlife Site (LWS)

Directions 

Site entrance: Entrance opposite Love Lane. Access is by permit only. Contact the Trust on 01727 858901.

Access by road: The reserve is 0.5 miles west of Ashwell, follow High Street (turns into West End), then turn right onto Hinxworth Road. Turn right when you reach Love Lane.

Access by public transport
Bus: 91, 202 – West End. (0.7 miles).
Rail: Ashwell and Morden (3.3 miles).

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