Previous Field Trips

These woods are the largest ancient woodland in West Yorkshire and are of special importance for nature conservation.  It is hoped that our visit coincides with the glorious display of bluebells that can be found here.  At this time of year birdlife should abound as summer migrants return for the breeding season.  Walking distance will be 2/3 miles on sometimes rough terrain with the possibility of muddy pathways.  Toilets are available in Ilkley town centre.  There should be a regular train service from Bradford (strikes permitting) or car share could be arranged.  
 

We are making this visit early in the season to look for Green-winged Orchids on The Lots, a grassland area in the village of Silverdale on Morecambe Bay. 
We will make an additional visit to another site in the vicinity, but will decide where at the time. We will choose somewhere with easy walking and the total distances we will cover will not exceed 3 miles. 
Expect a relatively late return today as this is a long journey.

We have visited this reserve (grid ref SE369 630) many times in the past. It is mainly noted for its birds (3 hides) and there is also botanical interest. Habitats include 2 lagoons, fen, grassland & wet pasture & copse. If you have binoculars you should bring them.  The bird feeders attract many species incl Marsh Tits, Reed Buntings & Water Rails.  The paths are all on the flat & easy to walk.
There are no toilet facilities on site so we will call in at Knaresborough en route.
Leader: John Gavaghan

We will follow a circular route in Boston Spa of about 3 miles on good paths and pavements. From the High Street we will take the riverside path which offers good views up and down the river. Steps lead to a cliff top designated as a site of Ecological and Scientific Importance (SEGI). After traversing the wooded area of Deepdale we will return to the High Street. Toilets and cafes are available. 
Leader: Alice Gingell
Minibus transport; depart Culture Fusion 9.10am/Unitarian Church 9.30am.  Cost £10

Ripley Castle has extensive gardens and parkland for us to explore. The walled garden in particular should be starting to put on its annual display of spring flowering bulbs and there is also an extensive range of trees from around the world in the grounds. There are deer and the park walk takes you round the large ornamental lake, across the waterfall and into where the deer graze.  Birdlife is varied so binoculars would be useful. There is no entrance fee at this time of year with the purchase of a takeaway coffee being all that is required to gain access to the grounds.

This visit will be a stark contrast to our sultry September visit (not just the weather - no cheap tickets this time I'm afraid!), but we have had many enjoyable winter days at Leighton Moss.

It is a chance to observe the winter ducks and waders, and the woodland birds. In the past we have been lucky enough to have good views of otters at this time of year. If there are starlings about then the train times will allow us to watch if there is a murmuration. 

This is a long day out - though you can adjust your travel to suit you if you prefer. 

We have been visiting this Yorkshire Wildlife Trust reserve (grid ref: SE369630) for many years and there is always something of interest whatever the time of year.  

There are 2 lagoons; other habitats include fen, grassland, wet pasture and copse, and there are 3 bird hides.  Spring flowers should be showing.  A toilet stop will be organised on route as there are no facilities on site.

Leaders: John Gavaghan and Alice Gingell 
Minibus transport; depart Unitarian Church 9.30am.  Cost £8
 

Part of this site is a formal park recently renovated; the top of the park is woodland and heather moorland.  

It is alongside Park Road with Lady Lane forming the bottom boundary and Heights lane the top boundary. 
Leader: John Gavaghan

No minibus transport.  Meet 10.30am at the top entrance on Park Road near to the Junction of Warren Lane. Bingley to Eldwick bus 616 from Bingley station or 622/623 (please check) stops on Park Road close to entrance.   Cost £3
 

The meeting begins at 10am and will last until early afternoon.

You may wish to bring lunch with you. The kettle will be to hand.  

We will be planning both of the summer programmes. 

We will repeat the successful walk of 2016.

The circular route in Boston Spa (grid ref SE431455) is about 3 miles on good paths and pavements. From the High Street we will take the riverside path which offers good views up and down the river. Steps lead to a cliff top designated as a site of Ecological and Scientific Importance (SEGI). After traversing the wooded area of Deepdale we will return to the High Street. There are interesting buildings and St Mary’s Church is worth a visit. Toilets and cafes are available.