Adel Dam Nature Reserve

Adel Dam was established as a nature reserve in 1968 and is now managed by the Yorkshire Wildlife Trust. The site was once a working dam and formed part of a Victorian garden planted with a mix of exotic and native plants. Evidence of this history can still be seen in over 30 species of high-canopy trees that remain at the site. The reserve is located next to Golden Acre Park, a beautiful parkland with mature woodlands, gardens, and a lake.

Today, the reserve consists of both wet and dry woodland surrounding a lake and a pond. Its star attraction is the resident kingfishers, though over 100 species of birds have been recorded here.

The lakes are home to tufted ducks, mallards, Mandarin ducks, great crested grebes, Canada geese, coots, and moorhens, many of which breed on the site. Herons can often be seen standing motionless, scanning the water for prey, and during winter, you may even hear the elusive water rail. The wetland environment also supports frogs, toads, aquatic insects, and otters.

In spring, a carpet of bluebells blankets the woodland floor. Among the trees, visitors might spot blue tits, coal tits, siskins, bullfinches, chaffinches, nuthatches, chiffchaffs, jays, and all three species of British woodpecker. Woodland mammals such as badgers, roe deer, and foxes are also known to inhabit the area.

Summer offers a chance to see birds of prey circling overhead, including red kites, sparrowhawks, and buzzards. At dusk, you might catch a glimpse of a tawny owl on the hunt.

Adel Dam has two bird hides: Lake Hide, which offers excellent views over the lakes, perfect for spotting waterfowl, and Marsh Hide, ideal for observing small birds like tits and finches visiting the feeding stations.

A circular trail of about a mile winds through the reserve, crossing woods and wetlands with stepping stones and bridges to navigate the wetter areas. There’s also a shorter path leading directly to the bird hides and back. While the route to Marsh Hide is accessible for wheelchairs and pushchairs, the rest of the trail is uneven and can become boggy after rain, so sturdy footwear is recommended.

Adel Dam is easily accessible from Golden Acre Park, which offers two car parks for visitors. From either car park, it’s a short walk to the reserve. Golden Acre Park also has a café serving snacks, light meals, and hot and cold drinks, as well as public toilets located near the café, about a 12-minute walk from Adel Dam.

Please note, dogs are not allowed on the reserve.