Ravensthorpe Reservoir

Location - Northwest of Northampton

Where to park - Main car park at SP67607114

Parking Charge - Yes

Notable species - One of the best sites in the county for Small Copper

Ravensthorpe Reservoir is a superb site for wildlife in Northamptonshire and with its rich bird and dragonfly life a visit at any time of year is rewarding. It is also a fine example of Victorian engineering which should interest anyone with an enthusiasm for history. However, the key reason for butterfly enthusiasts visiting Ravensthorpe Reservoir is for the bank of the dam which plays host to one of the largest populations of Small Copper in the county. To reach the dam park in the small car park at SP67607114, please note that there is a small fee and a ticket can be bought from the machine by the entrance. From here walk passed the gate and follow the path through the woodland. Once you come out of the woodland you will see the large, curved bridge over the reservoir outflow. After crossing this go through the green gate and you will find yourself on the dam. The grassy bank of the dam can be one of the most productive sites for Small Copper and it is worth walking along the top and the bottom looking for butterflies. It is steep so stout footwear with ankle protection is advisable if you plan on scaling the bank at any time. If visiting in the autumn it is also worth checking any flowering Ivy in the area for nectaring butterflies as well. Please note that the bank isn’t actually managed for butterflies and sometimes a cut at the wrong time can seriously reduce numbers, but most years they are there in force, particularly in the late summer and early autumn. Once finished here you can continue the walk by following the path around the other side of the reservoir and across the causeway (watch for the traffic!) back to the car park.

Ravensthorpe Reservoir Dam

Ravensthorpe Reservoir Outflow Bridge