The Avenue Country Park

Previously The Avenue coking works, this site has been restored to provide space for both wildlife and people. The waterways and grasslands are home to kingfishers, small mammals and grass snakes, whilst the big open skies give views of kestrels and skylarks. The large multi-user paths and easy access make this a great place for a family day out with the crooked spire and Chesterfield skyline as a backdrop.

Location

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Hornbeam Drive

Wingerworth

Derbyshire

S42 6FY

OS Map Reference

SK3887 6806

Know before you go

Size

90 hectares

Entry fee

Free

Parking information

Parking is available on at the Country Park carpark which can be found on Hornbeam Drive S42 6FY

Grazing animals

Yes

Walking trails

There are a variety of large multi-user paths suitable for walking, cycling and horse riding year-round.

Access

Access at all main entrances is via squeeze stiles which allow access for wheelchairs and smaller mobility scooters. Larger mobility scooters may not fit.

Dogs

On a lead

When to visit

Opening times

Open at all times. Car Park may be closed outside daylight hours.

Best time to visit

Any time of year. Wild flowers in spring and summer, mixed flocks of birds in the winter months.

About the reserve

The restoration of The Avenue coking works site and re-meandering of the River Rother on this site has created a country park with a mix of grassland, wetland and newly planted woodland habitats.

Restoration work was completed in 2019 and already a large number of bird species can be found on site. Regular sightings of kingfisher, lapwings and goosander are reported in the wetland areas by visitors, while flocks of species such as goldfinch feed in the large meadow areas.

Grass snakes may be spotted disappearing from view in the wet grassy environments, and great crested newts are recorded on site.

On top of wildlife watching the site offers many opportunities for recreation, with large multi-user paths suitable for running, cycling and horse-riding. Sports pitches provide places for local teams to get active.

The location of The Avenue Country Park on the outskirts of Chesterfield makes it a great place for people to visit and enjoy.

Do you want to get outdoors and help wildlife? Join our team of volunteers looking after The Avenue Country Park Washlands. We’re protecting wildlife by managing grasslands, woodlands and wetlands and giving people a place to enjoy. Every Thursday at 09:30am, meeting on Mill Lane. No experience necessary, all tools and training provided. Call 01773 881188 for more information.