Tucked away in the south Bristol suburb of Bishopsworth lies Manor Woods Valley, a nature reserve with wildflower meadows, woodland and plenty of wildlife, running alongside the Malago stream.
It's an area with a rich history. There were two manors in Bishopsworth according to the Domesday Book of 1086, one of which matches the description of Manor Woods.
Much of Manor Woods became part of Headley Farm in 1600, and the track which led to the farm still exists today.
Whilst Bedminster turned into a densely populated suburb throughout the Industrial Revolution, the land in Manor Woods Valley remained untouched by urban development.
In 1998, Manor Woods became part of the Bishopsworth and Malago Conservation Area which provides additional protection against unsuitable development.
Nowadays, Manor Woods Valley Local Nature Reserve is owned by Bristol City Council and is looked after by the Malago Valley Conservation Group.
A tarmac track runs throughout the length of the site making most of the nature reserve accessible for wheelchairs. Parking is available in surrounding streets.
Here are 18 photos from our visit to Manor Woods Valley:
Much of Manor Woods became part of Headley Farm in 1600, and the track which led to the farm still exists today.
5. Forest trails
Visitors can enjoy forest trails through the woodland path at Manor Woods Valley. Be warned, however, that the paths are made of dirt and can become slippery and muddy during and after rainy days.
6. Interceptor
The interceptor, located near the entrance by Vale Lane, was built as a flood defence after a freak rainstorm sent a surge down the Malago in 1968, causing major flooding. It takes some of the water from the River Malago underground and into the Avon New Cut.
7. Library
The Bishopsworth library is located next to the entrance in St Peter's Rise and is open Mondays from 1pm to 7pm and Wednesdays to Saturdays from 11am to 5pm.
8. Map
We came across two information boards with maps during our visit. One was located next to the wildflower meadow near Vale Lane and focused on the mid-summer meadow and the other one was by the pond and focused on the River Malago and the pond.