Explore a reclaimed mining site transformed into a wildlife haven featuring skylarks, dragonflies, and tranquil pools across 25 hectares of grassland and woodland.

Bateswood Nature Reserve, also known as Leycett Meadows, is a 25-hectare nature reserve in Staffordshire that has been reclaimed by wildlife following the cessation of opencast mining activities. The reserve has become particularly renowned for its population of skylarks, whose unmistakable song echoes across the plateau during spring and summer months, making it an ideal destination for birdwatching enthusiasts. Visitors can experience a diverse range of wildlife across multiple habitats. The reserve supports over 13 species of dragonflies and damselflies, which are best observed during warm summer days when they become active around the small pools and marshy areas. The wet zones also provide habitat for amphibians including great crested newts, a legally protected species. Beyond insects, the young trees and scrub support small birds such as chiffchaff, willow warbler, blackcap, and wren, while lapwings have begun breeding in small numbers. The reserve offers easy walking trails covering approximately 4.5 km with an elevation gain of 91 metres, typically taking 1-1.5 hours to complete. The uneven terrain and access via stiles make it suitable for families with older children and adults seeking a moderate outdoor experience. Dogs are welcome but should be kept under control and preferably on leads, particularly between April and July during nesting season. Entry is completely free, and the reserve is open at all times, with parking available in a small designated area.

Venue Details

What this place offers

Toilets

Public transport nearby

Accessible toilets

Free WiFi

Baby changing facilities

Food available

On-site parking

🐕Dog-friendly

Parking nearby

Pushchair friendly

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Dave Briggs

a month ago

Nice place to walk dogs. Not too busy. Limited parking at the location I went too.

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Adam Contoret

4 months ago

Walked round the lake with the dog - nice peaceful place.

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David Booth

a year ago

We took an afternoon stroll here with our dog after a friend told us about this hidden gem. Although the trees were still fairly bare, there were plenty of birds calling as we left the small parking area and headed westwards along the path towards Cloggers Pool. This stretch is flat and open to the views across the open moorland. After ten minutes or so you will come across the gravelled pathway that leads around the pool, as well one that passes up alongside the wood on the far side. We chose the circular route around the scenic pool. There's also access to the woods as you travel around the pool. We spotted some greylag geese and a few coots as we walked around. Looking forward to revisiting when the bluebells are out in the woods. A lovely spot to stretch your legs at.

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Emma Goodwin

3 years ago

Beautiful place for a walk. The lake around Bateswood and neighbouring Podmore woods are great for family and dog walks. Dogs must be on leads around the lake but plenty of woodland to let them explore off lead. Peaceful all the way round. One of our favourite walking spots locally.

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Jo Edwards

3 years ago

Great place to relax and enjoy some nature. Everytime I've gone it hasn't been overly busy which I prefer. Zuko can run off lead in some areas but just keep an eye out for signs for when it says to put them on the lead (usually at the lake or going into a field) Carpark is small do just be awear of that.

Reviews last updated: 29 September 2026