A Tour of Radley

Thrupp Lane lakes

Very few of the lakes, formed by gravel extraction, remain. Two of these are among the oldest of Radley's gravel pits. These are the two lakes north of the old railway designated 'E' and 'F' (see map). Over many decades, these lakes, and the surrounding land, have recovered and have become an attractive haven for many species of wildlife. A wide variety of mature trees have become established around the lakes, and there are areas of wilderness undisturbed by recent human interference. The two lakes are separated by a narrow wooded isthmus where birds, butterflies, damselflies and many other forms of wildlife abound. Both lakes are stocked with fish. The south lake, lake 'F', also known as Bullfield Lake, which is flanked by the old railway track bed to the south, is a favourite spot for local anglers. This area is enjoyed by people, from Abingdon and Radley and further afield, who find it a wonderful place to visit on a fine weekend (when the gravel works are quiet) to enjoy that rare feel of a truly natural environment. The richness and diversity of the wildlife in such a small area is truly staggering. It is hard to believe that anyone would wish its destruction...

The contrast in scenery with some previous pages of this tour could hardly be greater and is a stark illustration of the fate that would have befallen this beautiful place if events had been allowed to run their course.

[Map]