PROTECTING GOOLE'S NATURAL HISTORY FOR FUTURE GENERATIONS
The Brick Ponds & Brick Pools
PROTECTING GOOLE'S NATURAL HISTORY FOR FUTURE GENERATIONS
The Brick Ponds & Brick Pools
THE BRICK PONDS & BRICK POOLS
The brick ponds at Oakhill Nature Reserve in Goole are historic, man-made ponds left over from the area’s former clay and brickworks.
Over time, they have naturally filled with water and become an important part of the reserve’s wetland habitat. Surrounded by reeds, grasses, and scrub, they provide a tranquil and wildlife-rich environment that contrasts with the open meadows and birch woodlands.
The brick ponds are particularly valued for their role in supporting amphibians, aquatic plants, and birds.
A great place to see Kingfishers throughout the year. In Spring Toads, Newts and Grass Snakes are frequently seen around the smaller pools. The area is a reserve hotspot for Dragonflies and Damselflies in the warmer months as well as a good space to look for Orchids. The brick ponds are one of the most biodiverse areas of the reserve.
WHAT YOU'LL NOTICE
Ducks, swans, moorhens and coots can be seen gliding along the water. Herons like to hunt along the edges. Reed and marsh birds are often hiding in the lush vegetations and the occasional migratory visitors arrive in the Spring and Autumn.
An abundance if frogs, toads and newts living in and around the water. Grass snakes are often spotted hunting near the pond edges.
This is the prefect spot for watching dragonflies and damselflies flitting over the water. You will also spot other aquatic insects such as water beetles and pond skaters.
Small mammals like water voles and field mice love living amongst the vegetation and bats love feeding over the ponds at dusk.
Reeds, rushes and other aquatic plants attract a diverse range of wildlife, the Brick Ponds are truly thriving with life.
