Research has shown that the site was historically wood pasture, later partially destroyed during the 1960’s.The site contains numerous archaeological remains from early mining history and was designated a Local Nature reserve in the 1980’s.

Silvery arches

The wood pasture, wet woodland and pool reed beds provide valuable habitat to a wide range of species. The agriculturally unimproved grasslands are home to a range of wildflowers (notable species being adders tongue fern and moonwort) are grazed throughout the year by two of the council’s Dexter cattle. The reserve is home to at least 258 species of moths and butterflies, such as silvery arches, brown-veined wainscot and silky wainscot.

The long-term aim is to restore the lost historic wood pasture landscape similar to the parkland which once existed in the surrounding Beaudesert Park estate. Another aim is to increase the size of reedbeds which support the rare wainscote moths.

A circular route can be taken round the reserve. There are footpaths leading from the reserve heading towards Beaudesert Old Park and Castle Ring SAM (Scheduled Ancient Monument).  A small car park is at the front of the reserve. Entry into the reserve is via a kissing gate with RADAR key access. The front of the pool contains surfaced paths with other paths being un-surfaced and may be muddy and slippy at certain times.

Fishing is available by permit from June 16th to March 16th each year. Fishing is catch and release dawn till dusk, the pool contains common carp, crucian carp, roach, rudd, bream, tench, gudgeon, perch. Permits are available from the council office :
Civic Centre, Beecroft Road, Cannock, WS11 7LP.

The reserve is found just off Cannock Wood Street, Hazelslade. There is a small free car park that is closed just after dusk throughout the year.