Hill Hook Local Nature Reserve

I’d never seen the site until a few months ago and couldn’t believe I’d never known of its existence. It was only when friends moved in nearby that I was introduced to a little oasis in the middle of a residential estate. I can’t believe it exists; it’s perfect and feels like a secret you’ve been let in on.
It’s not so much that there’s loads there, just that it exists at all. The water is surprisingly large and around it is a trail you can navigate; it’s clearly marked but not particularly formal so you need to be reasonably sprightly. That said, an appeal of the area is that it seems very natural and not undone by self-​conscious, over-​landscaping.
You should see an array of water birds and it’s little wonder that this site, owned by the council and maintained by wildlife groups, is featured in organised nature studies, including bat walks in late-​summer. Nothing touches Sutton Park locally of course, but this is a better bet than the Plantsbrook equivalent at Pype Hayes or New Hall Valley Country Park. Delightful.

This must be the Council’s smallest park in the entire city. Small is beautiful. Beautiful things come in small packages.
When you first get here there is no indication of the wonders you are about to experience. My trip begins with a short amble down streets full of smart but similar looking Four Oaks houses and then the surprise hits you. Water gushes into a large pond as Swans, Canada Geese, Mallards and Moor Hens all jostle for the bread you may have brought with you. Park Life!
My favourite time of year to visit is during the spring when the former mill pond is full of newborns, as chicks of all descriptions bob on the water, or cling to the small island in the centre. Be careful though, the geese and swans will let you know who’s boss if you get too close to their young. The protective swans think nothing of lashing out at even the biggest dogs enjoying a country walk with their owners. We usually pick up little Frecks as she can get a bit scared.
Recently the Council have redeveloped the wooded area to the rear of the park of these giant birds. By opening up a series of bridges, locals can now walk the entire circumference of the pond. However, tread carefully because things can still get quite muddy after a downpour. On a sunny Sunday, local cricket can even be enjoyed from this location as the woods border Four Oaks’ field. This is England and its countryside at its very, very best!