Oak Spinney

Wood, Forest in Leicestershire Harborough

England

Oak Spinney

Reflection at Foxton â 1978 The boat just rippling the mirror-still canal basin is former working boat Kimberley. By this time she had been adapted as a camping boat by the Willow Wren company, the hold forming a sleeping area covered by traditional tarpaulins.

For me it was definitely a matter of learning canal boating at the deep end – a full length 70-footer drawing nearly 3 feet of water on my first venture into boat handling!

The bridge on the left spans the arm which served the bottom of the inclined plane. The boatyard and slipway have been replaced by a cafe. — Reflection at Foxton â 1978 Credit: Alan Murray-Rust

Oak Spinney is a picturesque woodland located in the county of Leicestershire, England. Covering an area of approximately 50 acres, it is renowned for its stunning oak trees and diverse range of flora and fauna.

The woodland is characterized by its dense canopy of towering oak trees, which provide a sense of tranquility and natural beauty. The trees are estimated to be several hundred years old, with some reaching heights of up to 30 meters. Their broad, spreading branches create a lush and shaded environment, making it an ideal habitat for a wide variety of wildlife.

The forest floor of Oak Spinney is covered with a rich carpet of wildflowers, ferns, and mosses, adding to its enchanting appeal. Bluebells, primroses, and wood anemones are just a few examples of the vibrant plant life that can be found here. These flowers blossom during the spring months, creating a colorful display that attracts many visitors.

The woodland is also home to a diverse range of animal species. Squirrels, foxes, and badgers are commonly spotted, while birdwatchers can delight in sightings of owls, woodpeckers, and various songbirds. The presence of such a variety of wildlife makes Oak Spinney a popular destination for nature enthusiasts and photographers.

The woodland is easily accessible, with well-maintained paths and trails allowing visitors to explore the area at their leisure. There are also designated picnic areas and benches where visitors can relax and enjoy the peaceful surroundings. Oak Spinney truly offers a serene escape from the hustle and bustle of everyday life, providing a haven for both nature lovers and those seeking solace in the beauty of the natural world.

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Oak Spinney Images

Images are sourced within 2km of 52.499064/-1.0080381 or Grid Reference SP6789. Thanks to Geograph Open Source API. All images are credited.

Reflection at Foxton â 1978

The boat just rippling the mirror-still canal basin is former working boat Kimberley. By this time she had been adapted as a camping boat by the Willow Wren company, the hold forming a sleeping area covered by traditional tarpaulins. For me it was definitely a matter of learning canal boating at the deep end – a full length 70-footer drawing nearly 3 feet of water on my first venture into boat handling! The bridge on the left spans the arm which served the bottom of the inclined plane. The boatyard and slipway have been replaced by a cafe.

Alan Murray-Rust

On the lower bridge at Foxton Locks

Neil Theasby

Narrow boat passing through Foxton Locks

On The Grand Union Canal

Neil Theasby

View of the canal basin below Foxton Locks

The bridge is dated 1899.

Neil Theasby

Foxton inclined plane

At the time of this visit, the planes had been largely cleared, but the engine house had not yet been turned into a museum. The site of the inclined plane is a Scheduled Monument.

Alan Murray-Rust

Foxton Locks â 1978 â 1

Looking down the lower section.

Alan Murray-Rust

Foxton Locks â 1978 â 2

Three down, seven more to go.

Alan Murray-Rust

Foxton Locks â 1978 â 3

Under the bridge (no.61) at the bottom lock. The bridge dates from the building of the canal c.1814 and is Listed Grade II.

Alan Murray-Rust

Grand Union Canal, Near Lubenham

Early on an autumn morning and the nearest narrowboat evidently has the stove going. Compare with SP6888 : Grand Union Canal, near Lubenham taken 12 years earlier.

Stephen McKay

Rainbow over Foxton

On a day that alternated between torrential rain and bright sunlight, rainbows were inevitable. Here a fine example hangs over the basin at the foot of Foxton locks.

Stephen McKay

Dredging at Foxton

A machine is being used to dredge silt and mud from the top side pond at Foxton Locks. The dredged material is then pumped through a temporary pipe to a disposal location at the bottom of the lock flight.

Stephen McKay