Local Nature Reserves

The Carrs

The Carrs in Warsop is a large open space, which includes the Local Nature Reserve, recreational and play areas, a mill pond and the River Meden.

This park, which was declared a Local nature Reserve in 2005, is a former water meadow which was once common land. The park is now managed by Mansfield District Council and caters for a wide range of leisure activities.

The nature reserve contains a diverse mixture of habitats, including wet willow carr, hawthorn scrub, and both wet and dry grassland. Between the mill dam and River Meden is a small island that is an important haven for wildlife. The Willow woodland to the south of the amenity grassland contains plants that are classed as ancient woodland indicators such as Wood Anemone, Dogs Mercury and Wild Garlic.

The River Meden is one of the cleanest rivers in the county and shoals of Brown Trout can be seen in its waters. The site is also great for birdlife with over one hundred species of birds recorded the highlights of which include Goosander, Osprey, Marsh Harrier and Waxwing.

Mill Pool

Home to swans, ducks and fish, the stunning mill pool is the highlight of the reserve. The pond remains as a site for fishing and relaxing. We’ll be making decisions on maintaining the willow lined banks and the island in our plan. The Nottinghamshire Wildlife Trust has recommended further planting of indigenous species needs to be done to secure the island site and to create a sustainable natural habitat.

The Scrape

The Scrape (small pond) near to the car park was created by the Friends of The Carrs with support from the Heritage Lottery Fund and guidance from wildlife experts. The site attracts dragon flies and red admiral butterflies and it is a lovely spot for families to learn more about Nottinghamshire’s wildlife.

Our plan will include recommendations for this area to allow activities such as pond dipping for schools.

Further information

There is a well-equipped children’s play area with picnic tables.

Along the river is a pleasant walk lined by mature willow trees, which links the Carrs by a footbridge to the park on Carr Lane. Here there is another children’s play area, as well as the BMX track, Skateboard Park and bowling green.

There is also ample car parking and three main entrances to the Carrs; through a car park off Church Road in Warsop, through Carr Lane Park and over a footbridge from River View.

 

Species of interest

  • Brown Trout
  • Goosander
  • Osprey
  • Marsh Harrier
  • Waxwing
  • Pied Wagtail
  • Swan.