Explore Ilkeston: Pioneer Meadows Local Nature Reserve

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view across the pond at pioneer meadows

Pioneer Meadows Local Nature Reserve

A spot hidden behind homes, offering paved paths, a brook, a lake, and woods, provides a delightful experience for visitors of all ages. For those seeking an extended stroll, a trail leads to Dale Abbey.

The reserve supports the Lowland Derbyshire Biodiversity Action Plan, featuring habitats such as neutral grassland, mixed broadleaf woodland, plantations, ancient hedgerows, and ponds with surrounding vegetation.

 

The grassland flora comprises species like common toadflax, devil’s-bit scabious, and lady’s smock, also known as cuckoo flower. Notably, the site is a habitat for hoverflies and butterflies, including the small copper and common blue species. Additionally, damselflies, dragonflies, and mayflies are attracted to the environments near the ponds.

Ilkeston Ponds, Lakes and Nature spots

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Kirk Hallam Lake and Meadows Nutbrook Trail

Nutbrook Trail

The Nutbrook Trail offers a 10-mile path free of traffic, connecting Long Eaton, Shipley Country Park, and Heanor. It is designed for shared use by both pedestrians and cyclists. Horse riders are permitted to use the Stanton branch line section and the route north of Straws Bridge. The entire stretch of the Nutbrook Trail running through Shipley Country Park is accessible to walkers, cyclists, and horse riders.