Saltwells Nature Reserve

Saltwell1On Saturday 26th September, prompted by an advert for bat walks at the nature reserve, in the local paper, we decided to investigate.

 

We parked the car and decided to attempt the 4kms orange Saltwell2arrow walk (Murray Grey trail). We set off enjoying the woodland path, the markers were easy to follow, we caught glimpses of squirrels and birds darting through the trees.

 

Saltwell5After a kilometre or so we realised the route would take us up Netherton Hill to St Andrews Church on the summit. We have admired this church on top of the hill as it is a memorable landmark, seen from a well known fast food Saltwell13outlet at Merry Hill shopping centre. The view from the church was outstanding, as we carried on down towards Lodge Farm reservoir, through the woods past Doulton’s clay pit and back to the car.

 

Saltwell12Last Saturday 3rd October, we decided to go again to the Saltwells Nature Reserve. As the trees had begun to change colour, we took our cameras.

 

 

Saltwell6We took a short cut, so we missed out the steepish climb upSaltwell4 to the Church. At the reservoir, we watched a man having a lesson on how to waterski. We especially wanted to capture the mood and atmosphere in the wooded area.

 

Saltwell8There were a few dog walkers, but generally we had plenty of space to ourselves. Fortunately the end of the trail, Saltwellperfectly situated, is a pub. Saltwells Inn, where we enjoyed a well deserved half pint, the food looks good too. Appears popular with local families.

These two photographs are my favourites, so I have made them full size.