Ash Pole Spinney

Wood, Forest in Northamptonshire

England

Ash Pole Spinney

Under the A5 An underside view of the viaduct which carries the A5 over the Great Ouse and its floodplain; the road is here bypassing Stony Stratford. — Under the A5 Credit: A J Paxton

Ash Pole Spinney is a small woodland area located in Northamptonshire, England. Covering an approximate area of 10 acres, it is situated near the village of Ashpole, hence its name. The spinney is primarily composed of ash trees, which dominate the landscape and provide a dense canopy that offers shelter and shade to various flora and fauna.

The woodland is classified as a semi-natural ancient woodland, meaning that it has existed for several centuries and has developed naturally over time. The age of the trees within the spinney varies, with some being several hundred years old. This contributes to its rich biodiversity and ecological value.

Ash Pole Spinney boasts a diverse range of plant species, including bluebells, primroses, and wild garlic, which create a vibrant carpet of colors during spring. The woodland also supports a variety of wildlife, including birds, small mammals, and insects. Common bird species found in the spinney include woodpeckers, thrushes, and various tit species.

The spinney provides an ideal environment for nature enthusiasts and walkers, offering peaceful and scenic trails for exploration. The area is managed by local authorities to ensure the preservation of its natural beauty and ecological balance. Visitors are encouraged to respect the woodland's delicate ecosystem by following designated paths and refraining from littering or damaging the flora and fauna.

In conclusion, Ash Pole Spinney is a charming woodland area in Northamptonshire, renowned for its ancient ash trees, diverse plant life, and wildlife. It offers a serene escape for individuals seeking solace in nature and serves as a vital habitat for numerous species.

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Ash Pole Spinney Images

Images are sourced within 2km of 52.074006/-0.87005906 or Grid Reference SP7742. Thanks to Geograph Open Source API. All images are credited.

Under the A5

An underside view of the viaduct which carries the A5 over the Great Ouse and its floodplain; the road is here bypassing Stony Stratford.

A J Paxton

River Great Ouse at Old Stratford

The river here forms the county boundary between Buckinghamshire/Milton Keynes and Northamptonshire. This photo is taken from under a willow on the Milton Keynes bank looking towards new housing on the outskirts of Old Stratford, Northamptonshire.

A J Paxton

Contains Asbestos

A boarded-up and dangerous property near the northern end of Stony Stratford High Street has been decorated by Gorilla Girl.

A J Paxton

Gorilla Girl & Fanboy, Stony Stratford High Street

Gorilla Girl decorated the boards on a derelict, asbestos-ridden property; see here SP7840 : Contains Asbestos. Fanboy added his/her/their contribution. Was it appreciated or unwanted?

A J Paxton

Northampton Road, Furtho

David Howard

Northampton Road near Cosgrove

David Howard

High Street in Stony Stratford

Steve Daniels

Cosgrove Lock and Buckingham Arm Junction

The Buckingham Arm was built in two separate phases: a broad canal to Old Stratford, which opened in 1800 and a narrow canal onwards to Buckingham, which opened in 1801. It was disused from 1932, and was dammed at the first bridge in 1944 to reduce leakage from the Grand Union, but was not finally abandoned until 1964. The remains were severed by the construction of new roads in the 1970s and again in the late 1980s. The section through Old Stratford and Deanshanger was sold off in the 1990s, and the route was lost to housing development. The Buckingham Canal Society was formed in 1992, and is actively pursuing a restoration programme.

Mark Percy

Solomon's Bridge

The splendid Gothic decorated Solomon's Bridge (no 65) is unique on the canal network. Nowhere else is this gothic style used. It was probably built this way in 1800 to appease a local landlord, but the exact circumstances are lost in the mists of time.

Mark Percy

The Navigation Inn, Cosgrove

Mark Percy

London Road bridge over the Great Ouse

Philip Jeffrey

The Old Stratford Cut

A long disused branch of the Grand Union Canal. This sluice gear may be original, but it looks surprisingly well preserved. There is some restoration work going on a bit further along and I'm guessing this has been put here fairly recently to control any surplus water that gets into the dry section.

Des Blenkinsopp

The Horse Tunnel, Cosgrove

A tunnel under the Grand Union Canal which is on an embankment along here. The tunnel was built just wide enough for horses to get through, which accounts for its distinctive shape. Listed as "Late 18th Century" Link

Des Blenkinsopp

Cosgrove Bridge

One of only two ornamental bridges on the Grand Union Canal. Also known as Solomon's or Solman's Bridge or Samson's Bridge. There is a long but fascinating article on Link

from the Cosgrove History Society, with all sorts of stuff about it, including how it got damaged by trucks while the M1 was being built, how birds peck the limestone away, how squirrels cross the bridge, the party for the Bridge's 180th birthday etc. Unsurprisingly, it carries Bridge Road over the canal.

Des Blenkinsopp

Bug Hotel by the Canal

A large structure of old wood, stones, bricks, twigs etc. designed to attract insects. It is by the towpath along the Old Stratford Cut just past the end of navigation by the bridge.

Des Blenkinsopp