Rabbit Ings Country Park
- Michael Palmer
- 1 day ago
- 2 min read
From Colliery to Country Park
Rabbit Ings Country Park, located near Royston in South Yorkshire, is a 64-hectare green space that has undergone a remarkable transformation. Once the site of Monckton Colliery and later the Royston Drift Mine, both of which closed in 1989, the area has been rehabilitated into a vibrant country park. Officially opened in 2011 and managed by The Land Trust since 2012, Rabbit Ings now offers a blend of natural beauty and historical significance.
What to Expect
Diverse Habitats: The park features woodlands, wetlands, and grasslands, providing a variety of ecosystems for wildlife.
Wildlife Spotting: Home to species such as newts, snakes, herons, and all five native British owl species.
Historic Features: A distinctive rabbit image carved into the hillside, created with the help of 192 local schoolchildren, is visible from miles around.
Walking and Accessibility
Trail Information: The park offers a 3.7-mile circular trail, generally considered easy and taking about 1.5 hours to complete.
Path Conditions: Most paths are wide and surfaced with crushed material, though some woodland trails are narrower and unsurfaced.
Accessibility: While many paths are accessible, some steeper areas may pose challenges for wheelchair users.
Visitor Information
Parking: Free parking is available on Lund Hill Lane, with a height barrier in place. Alternative parking is located further along Lund Hill Lane.
Opening Hours: Open year-round.
Facilities: Limited amenities; visitors are encouraged to bring their own refreshments.
Why Visit?
Rabbit Ings Country Park offers a unique opportunity to explore a site rich in industrial history that has been transformed into a haven for nature and recreation. Whether you're interested in walking, wildlife watching, or simply enjoying the outdoors, Rabbit Ings provides a peaceful retreat just outside Royston.
Rabbit Ings Country Park
Rabbit Ings Country Park
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