An introduction to our nature sites
Each of Langdyke’s reserves has it’s own distinct and diverse feel about it.
They are all centred in the main around the tiny village of Etton and its larger neighbour Helpston.
In the eastern area of Langdyke country the three reserves are all in a strip of land between the villages of Etton and Maxey.
Etton-Maxey nature reserve is the largest area the countryside trust maintains. A former site for gravel extraction it sits alongside the current area being worked by Tarmac. It is grazed all year round by sheep. Home to Turtle Doves, Open to members only all year round.
Etton High Meadow consists of a barn, a series of paddocks, a community orchard with more than 70 heritage fruit trees and six allotments for local residents to use. Open in summer months
Directly opposite on the other side of the Etton road is Vergette Wood Meadow – the latest reserve to join the Langdyke family. It is a mix of meadow land and flooded woodland. .Open in summer months but can easily be viewed from the South Drain.
In the western section the main reserve is Swaddywell – a quarry since Roman times – which was rescued from a variety of uses (including a race track) by Langdyke in 2003. The site is renowned for its variety of orchids. Open all year round.
On the edge of the nearby village of Helpston is the Torpel Manor site. The grassy meadow hides a rich history from Roman times, to a Norman castle, then a medieval manor and settlement with royal connections. Open all year.
Nearby in on the edge of the village of Bainton is the unique Bainton Heath reserve – a twenty acre site owned by National Grid and sadly not open to the public. Walks are arranged by Langydke.
In addition Langdyke has two very small – but equally important – areas of land which it looks after. M’Lady’s Pond near Ailsworth and Marholm Field Bank, which is close to Castor. Both are only open for visits on certain days.
Our latest site is the Christ’s College Pits Nature Reserve which is alongside the Maxey Cut and in easy walking distance of Helpston, Maxey and Etton.