Declared as a Local Nature Reserve in 2017, 3.8 hectares of tranquillity sit above the Ironbridge Gorge. This small site is home to some of the boroughs most important amphibian, dragonfly and damselfly populations. The perfect spot for some quiet contemplation.
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Things to see and do
The Beeches Local Nature Reserve, along with the neighbouring local nature reserve at Lodge Field, is one of the most important grassland sites in the borough. Today only 2% of the meadows that existed in the UK during the 1930’s remain. This means that a staggering 7.5 million acres of wildflower meadow have been lost over that time making the grassland at the Beeches in the Councils care extremely rare and valuable. As well as the sites grasslands The Beeches pond is home to a thriving population of great crested newts. Over 12 species of dragonfly and damselfly have been recorded here and the site has been recognised by the British Dragonfly Society as a ‘priority’ site locally.
A series of footpaths cross the site linking it to the green corridor that runs along the Ironbridge Gorge northern plateau. Walking at The Beeches provides some stunning views towards the Severn Valley.
Both this site and its neighbour Lodge Field are cared for in partnership between Telford & Wrekin Council and the Ironbridge Meadows Group who are part of the Telford Green Space Partnership.
Water safety
We want everyone to be safe when visiting our sites that have water features within them.
We work closely with the Royal Life Saving Society on managing water safety on our sites and further details on advice can be found on the RLSS website.
When visiting this site, here are a few tips to keep safe around the water:
- keep out of the water at all times
- never allow children to play near the water unless accompanied by an adult
- don't run near the water, you may trip and fall in
- learn how to help in an emergency; if you see someone in trouble in the water never jump in yourself. Stay calm and phone for help. Some sites across the borough have water safety sites and equipment, please only use the equipment when required.
For more information on how to rescue a person from drowning please visit the RLSS website.
Address
Access via Orchard Lane/Lodge Lane
Ironbridge
Telford
TF8 7PB
Parking
There is no parking at the the Beeches, only minimum parking on the surrunding roads. The site is accessed by foot and the closest car parks can be found in Ironbridge:
- Wharfage car park - TF8 7NH
- Station Yard car park - TF8 7JP.
The location of The Beeches on Google Maps
Last updated: 16/06/2023 09:52
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