About the reserve

Rush Furlong is a fragment of the once extensive system of strip farming in the Isle of Axholme that has by chance survived. The nearby land is now mostly arable, but this small meadow grassland strip has been managed only by hay-cutting for as long as can be traced. This regular, unchanging management and lack of disturbance, combined with a soil derived from the base-rich Keuper Marl, has resulted in a rich flora.

Over 60 species of flowering plants have been recorded, including yellow rattle, oxeye daisy, rough hawk's-beard, agrimony, meadow oat-grass and primrose. The speciality of the site is the uncommon green-winged orchid of which several thousand spikes are to be found in most years. Adder's-tongue also occurs.

The management aim is to continue the traditional practice of hay-cutting.

The reserve lies to the east of the A161, the Isle of Axholme's main road, just north of Haxey. Turn off the A161 and drive up the track to access the reserve. There is a small area mown for parking just off the track to the left. This provides parking for approximately two vehicles. The track is in constant use and should not be obstructed at any time. Alternatively, park on the A161 road and walk up the track to access the reserve.

Nearest postcode DN9 2LH. Please note - postcodes are for the nearest registered address as we are unable to get postcodes for nature reserves.

Location information

Rush Furlong location PDF

What3Words

///wildfires.tonal.carefully