Tucked away, sandwiched between Staunton Harold ornamental lake and the Staunton Harold Reservoir, is a little patch of overlooked magic.
Dimminsdale is signposted and shown on maps, but few people go there, and hence it's a little patch of heaven which, if you like hidden places, this is a delight, especially in the springtime ...
This former lime quarry has reverted to nature and in the process transformed itself into a charming enclave of woods, little ponds (former excavation holes) and all accessed via a network of paths for the visitor to explore.
Limestone and lead mining took place for 200 years up to the end of the nineteenth century.
This reserve is also well known for the spectacular display of snowdrops that appear in late winter and early spring. A visit to this special site is a must to enjoy the carpet of white that appears, giving hope that warmer times are on the way and spring is just around the corner.
Depending on the weather, February and March can be the best time to experience this. And for an added bonus in March, you might be lucky enough to enjoy hares boxing in the fields. The mixed woodland is also great for birdlife, and, if you’re lucky, you might even spot a roe or fallow deer!
A carpet of snowdrops
The large field to the south and east of the wood supports heath grassland plant species, including sheep's fescue and heath grass, with frequent heath bedstraw and harebell. Such a variety of plants supports a diverse insect population, which in turn draws in our more charismatic species. You might hear the yaffle of the green woodpecker as he bounds across the field; they make the most of the ants that thrive here.
The site is approx 3 miles from Breedon Hall, about 10 mins in the car.
Google Earth directions:
https://earth.google.com/earth/rpc/cc/drive?state=%7B%22ids%22%3A%5B%221UHCNmOxrS1wCBqLWKSnIMp89zEOSHP4c%22%5D%2C%22action%22%3A%22open%22%2C%22userId%22%3A%22110321054333800237287%22%2C%22resourceKeys%22%3A%7B%7D%7D&usp=sharing