Alverthorpe Meadows and Wrenthorpe Park
Alverthorpe Meadows and Wrenthorpe Park are in the north-west residential suburbs of Wakefield. It is a green area with grassland, woodland, and ponds, providing a peaceful escape from city life.
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Location:
Wrenthorpe
Wakefield
WF2 0NEOpen every day.
Facilities and services
- Free parking off Wrenthorpe Ln
- Kids playground
- Football pitch
- Surfaced paths through the park for walking and cycling
- Footpaths pass through the informal fields of the meadows
- Boardwalks and bridges over the ponds for wildlife spotting
Historical interest
In medieval times this area became part of the open farmland between Wakefield (to the east) and the "Outwood" (to the north-west). The ridge and furrow patterns in the south-west of the park show evidence of these fields.
By 1845 the fields had been enclosed by hedgerows so that animals could be kept inside. The oldest hedgerow trees on the site have horizontal trunks.
During the 19th century a railway line was built across the valley to link Wakefield and Dewsbury. This is no longer in use, but the course is marked by a footpath and a cycle track.
Nature Conservation
The site has been designated as a local nature reserve.
The meadows contain a mix of wildflowers which are best seen in late spring to early summer. Keep an eye out for butterflies such as the Orange Tip.
Look above the grass and you may see a Sparrowhawk with its looping flight or a hovering Kestrel hunting. Listen out for a Tawny Owl or woodpecker.
The ponds attract the odd Kingfisher as well as Grey Heron, Coot and Mallard Duck.
Volunteers
If you are interested in local opportunities on this and other sites, please get in touch.
Contact Us
Waterton Countryside Discovery Centre Anglers Country Park Haw Park Lane Wintersett Wakefield WF4 2EB