Woodland And Water
In the South Lakes just off the A590 near Ulverston is a nature reserve that most, including many locals (myself included) will probably never have heard of. Roudsea Wood Nature Reserve is a delight.
Woodland trail.
I’d say it doesn’t promote itself much, largely because it sits on a private estate; Holker Hall and requires a permit to be accessed. I doubt you’ll even find a sign, except plenty saying ‘private’ and ‘authorised access only’, until you get to the small car park.
Haircap moss, striking when photographed close-up.
There are effectively two marked circular trails from the car park. The longer one takes you through dense woodland and close to the Leven Estuary.
Looking across the Leven Estuary towards Ulverston.
It is definitely worth a small detour to take in the scenic view, especially at high tide.
Zooming in on the Leven viaduct.
Pretty sea aster close to the water’s edge.
Common catsear flowers are striking and worth a close-up photo too.
Speckled wood butterfly rests in the sun on bracken.
As you enjoy the quiet walk through the woods there is plenty of flora and fauna to admire.
Common amongst the trees in late summer are speckled wood butterflies. They like to sit in the sun with wings open, so can be easier to photograph.
The Boardwalk
Great views from the boardwalk.
It was a lovely contrast from the woodland to come out onto the boardwalk crossing the vast expanse of peat moss. Particularly attractive was the mass of purple heather, which was in abundance in August.
Pollinators delight, heather in flower
From the flat landscape with just a scattering of trees there are wonderful views across to the surrounding hills. Being some distance from a main road with only a few visitors (at least when I was there), it was very quiet.
Look out when you are walking, as there were plenty of common lizards soaking up the sun on the boardwalk.
Common lizard
Colourful heather and hills looking over Fish House Moss.
Bullrushes on the edge of the moss.
Leaving the nature reserve, there is plenty of splendid countryside to explore in the immediate vicinity. The Cumbria Coastal Way
Railway relic, a rusting iron bridge crosses the River Leven.
I hope you have enjoyed my latest ‘Photographer’s Ramblings’ from one of my favourite parts of the country. If you’d like to know more about Roudsea Wood & Mosses Nature Reserve and how to get a permit, there’s a handy leaflet to download HERE …Happy Rambling!