Welcome to Baggeridge Country Park which is today a beautiful area of countryside on the doorstep of the Black Country. Being set back from the roads, it's secluded delights are revealed to you as you explore further. The creation of today's scenery however, is very diverse.
History
All of the land was once owned by the Earl of Dudley who lived at nearby Himley Hall. The land surrounding the hall was landscaped by
Capability Brown. Part of this now forms the southern half of the park up to the Wishing Pools. In 1895 coal was discovered at the northern end of Baggridge and pit shafts were sunk. At the height of production
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it was claimed that it was the world's biggest and most modern pit. It was nationalised in 1947 and finally closed down in 1968. The pit heads were located either side of the camp site near to the Teashop, catering for drinks ice creams, hot & cold meals and children's parties.
Reclamation
The derelict land was bought by the local council (now South Staffordshire District Council) and designated a Country Park. Government grant aid enabled improvement works to be carried out and reclamation began in 1981. The Park was officially opened by HRH Princess Anne on 17th June 1983.
Woodland
White's Wood and Baggeridge Wood have been woodlands for hundreds of years. Other areas of young trees have naturally developed or been planted since the mine closed. The larch trees were grown as timber for the mine. The old woods on the Park were largely felled for timber in the 1940's, as was much of the surrounding area. This damaged their value for wildlife. The Rangers now manage the woods to maximise the benefit to birds and flowers. The colonising sycamore tree is contained by felling, and the native oak and hazel are replanted. Visit in spring to see beautiful bluebells and wild garlic, however, the woods are delightful throughout the year.
Ponds and Streams
Spring Pool, Island Pool and Wishing Pools are part of the series created by Capability Brown. Bag Pool was formed during the reclamation. They is a valuable wildlife habitat which is in decline nationally. Little Grebes nest here and the azure blue Kingfisher can be fleetingly be seen. In the summer up to fourteen species of Dragonfly and Damselfly can be found.
Heathland
Gospel End Common is a small area of heathland. Originally for animal grazing, it is an example of a nationally disappearing habitat. If neglected, it is colonised by birch and bramble, losing the special wildlife value. The Rangers manage it with the aim of returning it to its former state. Visit in autumn to see the glorious mauve heather and the yellow gorse.
Meadows
These areas
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of grassland are reseeded colliery waste and disturbed land. The 'hills' are also mounds of spoil from the mine and is now the Toposcope viewpoint. They have developed into fine wildflower habitats with butterflies such the gatekeeper, dingy skipper and common blue abounding in summer. 24 species of butterfly have been recorded on the Park.
Things to do
Walks - There is a small charge for ranger led activities. There is a series of trails around the park. Each will show a different aspect. Anyone can join in and the Ranger will meet you. Most events are free, although some require advance booking due to their popularity.
Tea shop - This is situated at the car park offering a range of snacks, meals, drinks and ice creams. Check for opening times.
Events - Events are held all year round
Horse riding - There is a trekking for licensed users
Field Studies - Schools and groups can book our educational activities throughout the year
Orienteering - A permanent course is set up on the park.
Fishing - Buy day tickets for Island and Spring Pools at the Visitor Centre and other outlets. Park via Himley Hall.
Tents and Caravans - organised groups are able to book stays at the Park.
Children's Play area - Situated in the Lower Car park
Miniature Railway - A miniature steam railway is run by volunteers on regular occasions.
Baggeridge heights aerial rope adventure. For details and booking please contact closertotheedge website or call 0845 880 2477 for more details.
'South Staffordshire Railway Walk'
The Walk is also managed by the South Staffordshire Council's Ranger Service. The Walk runs for 5 1/2 miles from Castlecroft at the northern end to Wall Heath in the south, where it continues on to Pensnett, managed by Dudley MBC. Free car parking is available at the Old Wombourne station (now a tea room) and at the site of Himley Station. The Ranger Service conducts various guided walks along the Railway Walk throughout the year, for more information contact Baggeridge Country park.
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