A peaceful haven with an explosive past, Crane Park Island is a beautiful watery reserve where you could be lucky enough to spot a majestic kingfisher or the threatened water vole.
The reserve
Once the old Hounslow Gunpowder Mills, this island is now a peaceful haven surrounded by the River Crane. It is a mosaic of woodland, scrub and reedbed, which due to careful management provides a home for the increasingly scarce water vole. The island welcomes visitors throughout the year and has good facilities for people with disabilities. School children on specially organised visits can investigate the rich aquatic life in the shallow stretches of the Crane and work is now in progress to turn the tower, an imposing relic of the old mills, into a nature study centre.
Habitats you'll see
River and riverbank, reedbed, woodland, scrubland
Species you might spot
Water voles, woodpeckers, kingfishers, dragonflies and damselflies
Film
Kingfishers and woodpeckers caught on camera at Crane Park Island by wildlife film-maker David Heath www.davidheathwildlife.com
Kingfisher and friends from David Andrew Heath on Vimeo.
The kingfisher is a legally protected bird under Schedule 1 of the Wildlife & Countryside Act 1981 (as amended), which means it is an offence to harm them, their eggs, or their nest (burrows) when in use or being built, or otherwise disturb them whilst in their breeding season (usually February to July).
Gt. Spotted Woodpecker from David Andrew Heath on Vimeo.
What’s in my backyard?
Find out what species have been spotted on this reserve with the fantastic WIMBY tool, run by GiGL – Greenspace Information for Greater London.
Visit us
There are entrances by footpath via Ellerman Avenue or Great Chertsey Road
The reserve is open at all times, while the Shot Tower is open on the first and last Sunday of each month, and for special events.
020 8755 2339
Map
Get involved
Search for events happening at this site – click here
Search for volunteering sessions at this site – click here
School visits
Fancy arranging a school trip to this site? Our experienced staff can provide your class with a hands-on outdoor learning experience directly linked with the National Curriculum. Have a look at our education pages for more information.
Site status
Site of Metropolitan Importance; Local Nature Reserve
Further site information can be found on:
