Langdyke’s western reserves – an introduction
The reserves in Langdyke’s western section offer a diverse mix of history, geology and nature.
Swaddywell Pit was the first nature reserve established by the Trust in 2003. Located south of Helpston it was the site of a quarry from Roman times onwards. Over the years it has had many changes of use, but today is home for a diverse mix of what nature offers.
Torpel Manor Field, is both a County Wildlife Site (rare Neutral Grassland) and a Scheduled Ancient Monument. The grassy meadow hides a rich history from Roman times, to a Norman castle, then a medieval manor and settlement with royal connections.
The story of Torpel has recently been brought to light via a Heritage Lottery Fund (HLF) project overseen by Langdyke’s History and Archaeology Group (HAG)
Bainton Heath is a twenty acre site owned by National Grid, to the west but not part of Bainton Fisheries, and managed by the Trust for the benefit of wildlife.The site was a former tip for waste fly ash from power stations in the north of England, but has since been colonised by a fascinating variety of flowers, mosses, lichens, insects and birds. Sadly, it is not open to the public.
| Torpel | Swaddywell | Bainton Heath |
| History and Archeology |