Nearby is Cherry Orchard Local Nature Reserve, a peaceful and tranquil green space. This 12.5ha reserve occupies a former landfill site which has remained undisturbed since 1987. A mosaic of habitats has emerged through natural regeneration. Flower-rich grassland and scrub attract breeding birds and butterflies. 

In spring migrant birds return to Cherry Orchard Local Nature Reserve to breed, swelling the numbers of resident, over-wintering species. Chiffchaff, willow warbler and whitethroat establish territories and sand martins and swallows hunt for the first flush of spring insects. As spring turns to summer, insects provide food for growing families of breeding birds. Listen out for the yaffle of woodpecker and the tinkling calls of linnets and goldfinches.

From April onwards the nature reserve becomes a riot of colour and activity. The first butterflies emerge to take advantage of new spring growth and nectar-bearing flowers. Orange tip and brimstone can be seen on sunny days, while colourful peacock butterflies bask on open ground. In summer, meadow brown, marbled white and small skipper can be seen on the wing in the grassland. See if you can spot a gatekeeper, red admiral or speckled wood in the scrub.