Overview
This site is about 2km east of the main Willington Gravel Pits complex along the River Ouse. It is a relatively large mature lake with an island, used mainly for fishing and some shooting September to January. Also, very occasionally, some speed boating by the owners.
Despite the above activity, on most visits it will be just you, a few fishermen a probably a large herd of Mute Swans (between 80-100 here, especially in winter).
The site itself is very under-watched and often very quiet, but its position on the Ouse and adjacent to Willington Gravel Pits means that it could come up trumps on occasion. And of course, as an under-watched site, you stand a good chance
of finding something.
Access
The site is not served by any public footpaths, however the owner is happy for people to visit the area using the access track from the A421 (park at the gated entrance TL120514 and walk in). Many locals/dog-walkers use this track. Not accessible by wheelchair.
Parking
Birds
Rarities:
Notable records from this site include Great Northern Diver, Whooper Swan, Pink-footed Goose, Pintail, Scaup, Red-crested Pochard, Great White Egret, Peregrine, Green Sandpiper, Water Pipit.
Most tantalising was a report from fishermen of a calling Corncrake here for a day in 2008. Alas, the record came to nothing but imagine walking down the track and hearing that!
