Branston Water Park facts for kids
Quick facts for kids Branston Water Park |
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Looking across the lake
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| Location | Burton upon Trent |
| Area | 23.55 hectares (58.2 acres) |
| Designation | Local nature reserve |
| Website | Branston Water Park |
Branston Water Park is a special place for nature near Burton upon Trent in Staffordshire, England. It's right next to the village of Branston. It's known as a local nature reserve, which means it's protected for its wildlife.
Contents
A Look Back in Time
From Gravel Pit to Green Space
Long ago, the lake at Branston Water Park wasn't a park at all. It was a place where people dug out gravel from the ground. This happened from the 1930s to the 1950s. After the digging stopped, nature slowly took over. Plants and animals began to live there naturally.
In the mid-1980s, the local council, East Staffordshire Borough Council, took over the land. They decided to turn it into a country park for everyone to enjoy. They added paths, signs, and even a visitor centre.
A Special Nature Spot
In 2010, Branston Water Park became an official local nature reserve. This means it's a very important place for wildlife. Since 2005, the park has also won the Green Flag Award. This award shows that it's a well-managed and welcoming green space.
What You'll Find There
Location and Size
Branston Water Park is a large area, about 23.55 hectares (that's like 23 football fields!). The Trent and Mersey Canal runs along one side of the park. The busy A38 road is on the other side.
Nature and Wildlife
The park is a fantastic wetland area. This means it has lots of water and wet ground, which is perfect for many plants and animals. Around the lake, you'll see many willow and birch trees. There are also meadows full of wildflowers.
One of the most important parts is a huge reed bed. This area is so special for nature that it's called a Grade 1 Staffordshire Site of Biological Importance. Many different creatures, especially birds, love to live in the reeds.
Fun for Visitors
If you visit, you can walk all the way around the lake on a flat path. It's great for a stroll or a bike ride. There are also picnic areas where you can enjoy a snack. Kids can have fun at the children's play area.
Two local clubs also use the park. The Burton Mutual Angling Association uses the lake for fishing. The Burton Model Boating Club enjoys sailing their model boats on the water.
