The Rookery

Wood, Forest in Staffordshire South Staffordshire

England

The Rookery

Shropshire Union Canal - Wheaton Aston Lock - Upper gate Looking back at the upper gate of Wheaton Aston Lock on the Shropshire Union Canal. There are only six* locks between the southern terminus of the &#039;Shroppie&#039; at Autherley Junction and beyond Market Drayton, this is the first of them when travelling northwards. The upper gates on this canal are a single flat wooden barrier while the downstream ones are two gates forming a V pointing into the lock - this is very common though on broad beam canals such as the Grand Union both sets are of the V type.
* There is also a Stop Lock at Autherley Junction itself. — Shropshire Union Canal - Wheaton Aston Lock - Upper gate Credit: Rob Farrow

The Rookery is a picturesque forest located in Staffordshire, England. Spanning over a vast area, this woodland is renowned for its natural beauty and diverse flora and fauna. The forest is situated in close proximity to the town of Wood and offers a tranquil escape from the hustle and bustle of city life.

The Rookery is characterized by its lush greenery, towering trees, and winding trails that meander through the forest. It is home to a wide range of plant species, including oak, birch, and beech trees, which provide a dense canopy overhead, creating a soothing and shaded atmosphere. The forest floor is adorned with a carpet of vibrant wildflowers, adding splashes of color to the landscape.

This woodland is also a sanctuary for various wildlife species. Visitors may be lucky enough to spot deer, foxes, badgers, and a variety of bird species, including owls and woodpeckers. The Rookery provides a natural habitat for these creatures and serves as an important ecological site.

The forest offers a multitude of recreational activities for nature enthusiasts. Hiking and walking trails criss-cross through the woodland, providing ample opportunities to explore its hidden treasures. It is also a popular spot for birdwatching, photography, and picnicking. The peaceful ambiance of The Rookery makes it an ideal destination for those seeking solace in nature.

Overall, The Rookery in Staffordshire is a captivating woodland that showcases the beauty of nature. Its stunning landscape, diverse wildlife, and recreational offerings make it a must-visit destination for both locals and tourists alike.

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The Rookery Images

Images are sourced within 2km of 52.718202/-2.2053803 or Grid Reference SJ8613. Thanks to Geograph Open Source API. All images are credited.

Shropshire Union Canal - Wheaton Aston Lock - Upper gate

Looking back at the upper gate of Wheaton Aston Lock on the Shropshire Union Canal. There are only six* locks between the southern terminus of the 'Shroppie' at Autherley Junction and beyond Market Drayton, this is the first of them when travelling northwards. The upper gates on this canal are a single flat wooden barrier while the downstream ones are two gates forming a V pointing into the lock - this is very common though on broad beam canals such as the Grand Union both sets are of the V type. * There is also a Stop Lock at Autherley Junction itself.

Rob Farrow

Shropshire Union Canal - Wheaton Aston Bridge (No.18)

This bridge (No.18, Wheaton Aston Bridge) is just SE of the lock at Wheaton Aston (see SJ8512 : Shropshire Union Canal - Wheaton Aston Lock - Upper gate) The bridge is EH Grade II listed: Link

Rob Farrow

Shropshire Union Canal - Shushions Bridge (No.21)

Shushions Bridge (No.21) on the Shropshire Union Canal is a little way north of Wheaton Aston. Going north it is the first bridge encountered for about a mile (since Dirty Lane Bridge (No.20) at the north end of Wheaton Aston), but SJ8414 : Shropshire Union Canal - Ryehill Bridge (No.22) follows very soon after. This view is looking back southwards from the back of the boat. The bridge is EH Grade II listed: Link

Rob Farrow

Towards Lapley Wood bridge

On the Shropshire Union Canal.

Andrew Abbott

Wheaton Aston bridge

Grade II listed. Listing number 1039256. Accommodation bridge over canal, circa 1832. Limewashed brickwork with stone coping and string course. Single elliptical arch on slightly concave sided plan with cambered carriageway and parapet, half round coping with piers at ends and cast iron hawser spurs at springings on towpath side. The Shropshire Union Canal was engineered by Thomas Telford, and completed in 1835.

Andrew Abbott

View from Wheaton Aston lock

On the Shropshire Union Canal.

Andrew Abbott

Boats moored at Wheaton Aston

On the Shropshire Union Canal.

Andrew Abbott

Tavern Bridge

Grade II listed. Listing number 1374084. Accommodation bridge over canal, circa 1832. Limewashed brickwork with stone coping and string course. Single vaulted elliptical arch with level carriageway and parapet, half round coping with piers at ends; cast iron hawser spurs at springings on towpath side.

Andrew Abbott

Shropshire Union Canal

North of Wheaton Aston.

Andrew Abbott

Sushions Bridge

Grade II listed. Listing number 1243056. Accommodation bridge. c1830-33. Telford design. Partly washed brick, with stone band copings. Single elliptical arch. Slightly cambered, solid parapet and piers. Oval iron number- plate on south side. 2 iron rope fenders. Adjoining to north a single wooden stop gate, in a brick recess with stone coping.

Andrew Abbott

Shropshire Union Canal near Wheaton Aston in Staffordshire

Looking north-west towards Gnosall and Market Drayton from Wheaton Aston Lock.

Roger Kidd

Private moorings near Wheaton Aston in Staffordshire

The moorings by Bridge Farm are extending into the winding hole here.

Roger Kidd

Alfred near Wheaton Aston in Staffordshire

A convenient private mooring spot on the Shropshire Union Canal by the Hartley Arms.

Roger Kidd

Dirty Lane Bridge near Wheaton Aston in Staffordshire

Dirty Lane Bridge is No 20 across the Shropshire Union Canal. It used to carry an unsurfaced lane, Downford Lane to the right, and presumably Dirty Lane to the left. It now still gives access from the canal, but since land to the left was covered in housing, Long Street is preferred to Dirty Lane.

Roger Kidd

Pasture north of Wheaton Aston in Staffordshire

Looking north-east towards Barleybrook Farm from the Shropshire Union Canal.

Roger Kidd

Barleybrook Farm north-east of Marston in Staffordshire

Looking north-east towards Barleybrook Farm from the Shropshire Union Canal. The farmhouse is off to the left. The farmhouse and farm buildings are recently built (late 20th century)?

Roger Kidd