Cranebank facts for kids
Cranebank is a special natural area located next to the River Crane in Hatton, a part of the London Borough of Hounslow. It's like a protected park where nature can thrive. The local government, Hounslow Council, owns and looks after this area. Cranebank is also a very important place for nature across London, known as a Site of Metropolitan Importance for Nature Conservation.
What Makes Cranebank Special?
Cranebank is home to beautiful water meadows, which are like grassy fields that sometimes get wet. These meadows are special because they have some plants that are rare in the local area. You might spot pretty flowers like the cuckoo flower and ragged robin growing here.
The area also has interesting ox-bow lakes. These are curved lakes that used to be part of the main river but got cut off over time. They create unique habitats for wildlife. If you visit, keep an eye out for insects! Cranebank is a great place for butterflies, with 26 different kinds, and also for damselflies and dragonflies, with 12 different types.
Different Names for the Park
This natural area is part of a larger park system, and it has been called by a few different names over the years.
- An old sign called it River Crane Park.
- A newer sign shows it as part of Crane Valley Park, which stretches along the River Crane from Great Chertsey Road all the way to the Grand Union Canal.
- London Gardens Online also calls it part of the six-mile-long Crane Valley Park.
- Greenspace Information for Greater London, an environmental information center, refers to it as Dudset Farm Pastures.
- The London Loop, a long walking path around London, goes through Cranebank and calls it Crane Bank Park in its directions.
How to Visit Cranebank
You can easily get into Cranebank from Earhart Way and from the Waye Avenue Open Space. It's a great spot to enjoy nature and see some of London's local wildlife.
