Havenside facts for kids

Havenside is a special natural area in Fishtoft, a village in Lincolnshire, England. It's officially known as a Local Nature Reserve and covers about 18.91 hectares. That's roughly the size of 25 football fields!

This long, thin piece of land runs along the eastern side of a river called The Haven. It stretches south from the town of Skirbeck and offers a mix of different natural habitats. You can find rough grasslands, areas with bushes and brambles, and meadows where cattle sometimes graze. There are also ponds that appear during certain seasons, and parts of the river estuary with mud flats.

Havenside is also an important historical spot. It's home to the Pilgrim Fathers' Memorial. This monument marks the place where a group of people, known as the Puritans, were stopped in 1607. They were trying to leave England to find a place where they could practice their religion without being troubled.

What is Havenside?

Havenside is a designated Local Nature Reserve. This means it's a place that is important for wildlife and nature, and it's protected so that people can enjoy it and learn from it. These reserves are often close to towns and cities, making them easy for local communities to visit.

The reserve is mostly bordered by fields on its eastern side. However, near Skirbeck, it's next to houses and industrial buildings. Further south, it's close to a sewerage works. This mix of surroundings makes Havenside a unique place where nature thrives right next to human activity.

Where is Havenside Located?

Havenside is found in Fishtoft, a civil parish within the Boston borough of Lincolnshire. It follows the edge of The Haven, which is a stretch of the River Witham. The reserve starts near the built-up area of Skirbeck and goes south. It ends just north of where another waterway, the Hobhole Drain, joins The Haven.

What Can You See at Havenside?

Havenside is home to many different types of natural environments.

• Grasslands and Scrub: Large areas are covered in rough grassland, mixed with bushes and brambles. These areas provide shelter and food for many small animals and birds.
• Grazing Meadows: Some parts of the reserve are meadows where cattle graze. This helps to keep the grass short and creates different habitats for plants and insects.
• Seasonal Ponds: Depending on the time of year, you might find ponds that fill with water. These are important for amphibians like frogs and newts, as well as various insects.
• Estuary and Mud Flats: The parts of Havenside next to The Haven are estuary and mud flat areas. An estuary is where a river meets the sea, and the water is a mix of fresh and salt water. Mud flats are rich in food for wading birds, which often come here to feed.

The Pilgrim Fathers' Story

One of the most famous features of Havenside is the Pilgrim Fathers' Memorial. This monument is located on a spot that was once known as Scotia Creek. In 1607, a group of people called the Puritans tried to leave England from this very spot. They were seeking freedom to practice their religion in their own way, which was difficult for them in England at the time. Sadly, they were arrested here. This event was an important step in their journey, which eventually led some of them to sail to America on the Mayflower in 1620.

How to Visit Havenside

There are a couple of ways to access Havenside. The main entrance is located near Finn Forest's works on the industrial estate, just off Fishtoft Road in Skirbeck. There is also another car park available off Scalp Road, which is in Fishtoft village itself. These access points make it easier for visitors to explore and enjoy the natural beauty and history of Havenside.