Glow-worm walk

These special beetles have made Townclose Hills nature reserve their home for years. Join expert Elspeth to bask in their glow; it’ll be a magical night to remember!

About Townclose Hills

Townclose Hills, or Billy Woods as it is commonly known, is a prominent knoll of magnesian limestone surrounded by low-lying arable land.

Townclose Hills comprises a steep-sided grassland plateau with woodland, wildflower meadows, scrub and a disused railway cutting with exposed limestone and shallow, spring-fed pools. The grassland plateau became a SSSI in 1984 as the largest example of a magnesian limestone grassland over 1 hectare in the county. The grassland is important for its diverse assemblage of flora and comes alive in the summer with clustered bellflower, field scabious and orchids. From the grassland plateau a beautiful panoramic view of the surrounding countryside can be enjoyed.

The wood is the most dominant part of the site. Quarried areas of the site support scrub woodland communities of wych elm, sycamore, hawthorn, blackthorn ash with sanicle and the regionally rare ploughman’s spikenard. As you walk through the reserve, keep your eyes open for butterflies such as gatekeeper, speckled wood and comma and birds such as yellowhammer, fieldfare and lesser spotted woodpecker.

IMPORTANT PAYMENT OPTIONS NOTE: Please do not choose the 'pay in instalments' option as, due to technical difficulties, this does not secure your place!

Embrace your wild side - what to expect:

Children must always be accompanied by an adult.

What to bring/wear

Our events take place outside throughout the year so brace yourself for the Yorkshire weather! Please wear appropriate sturdy, outdoor footwear and clothing.

Terrain

There are s few deep grykes, slopes and plenty of uneven surfaces at Townclose Hills. You may wish to bring a torch to help navigate. Therefore this event is suitable to people of a reasonable level of fitness and confidence outdoors in slightly challenging terrain, especially in the dark.

Toilets and catering

There are no toilets or catering facilities available at Townclose Hills nature reserve

Joining us on the day

The meeting point for this event is in the car park of Kippax leisure centre. What3Words///metals.marketing.export. Grid reference SE410299

Parking

Parking available at Kippax leisure centre

Contact us

If you're having difficulties with your booking, or you have more questions about the event, please don't hesitate to get in touch! You can email us at supporter.services@ywt.org.uk or drop us a call on 01904 659570.

About Yorkshire Wildlife Trust

Yorkshire Wildlife Trust is the only charity entirely dedicated to conserving, protecting and enhancing Yorkshire's wildlife and wild places. Find out more about what we do on our website and discover how you can support our work.

Photo: Evan Bowen-Jones