Details for Ballowfields Local Nature Reserve

Ballowfields Local Nature Reserve (LNR) is a small site owned and managed by the Yorkshire Dales National Park Authority. It  also forms part of the larger Ox Close Site of Special Scientific Interest (SSSI). Here, the stream of Eller Beck runs through a beautiful area of grassland which has built up over the years on what was once just unsightly lead mining spoil. As a result there are a wide range of flora and fauna to be found from a variety of different communities. Metallophytes such as Thrift, Pyrenean Scurvygrass and Spring Sandwort can be seen on the lead mining spoil close to the beck, Meadowsweet inhabits the wetter marshy areas and Devil’s-bit Scabious and Harebell thrive in some of the drier areas. In addition a colourful variety of butterflies can be seen flitting through the flora here on calm, dry days. A visit to this interesting nature reserve would be ideal as part of any walking itinerary.

Access and facilities: Ballowfields LNR can be accessed from the the two car parking areas alongside the road between Askrigg and Carperby. There are interpretation panels on-site near the parking areas.