Longworth Clough Nature Reserve

Longworth Clough nature reserve covers an area of 42 ha. It is nationally important for its wildlife and most of it has been designated as a Site of Special Scientific Interest. The complex drainage of the site is not well understood but the resultant ground water seepages produce patches of flush-mire, supporting yellow iris, common spotted orchid, bog asphodel and sneezewort; and areas of alder and willow carr, supporting great horsetail, marsh marigold, and opposite-leaved golden saxifrage. Sessile oak woodland dominates the drier slopes.

 

Wildlife highlights: Numerous woodland bird species breed on the nature reserve, including woodcock, tawny owl, tree pipit, wood warbler and long-tailed tit. A dipper has occasionally been seen feeding in the Eagley Brook. Butterflies include small skipper, large white, green-veined white, red admiral, peacock, comma, gatekeeper and meadow brown. 

 

Location & Access: Longworth Clough lies on the northern outskirts of Bolton, about 1km (0.5 mile) northwest of Egerton and the same distance southeast of Belmont. Parking is possible in rough lay-bys on the Longworth Road. 

 

The nature reserve is open to the general public and several public footpaths pass through it. In the interest of wildlife conservation and your own safety please stay on the footpaths. Some of the fields have livestock grazing them, please ensure you dog is on a lead at all times.