Pugneys Country Park Explained

Pugneys Country Park is a 250acres park located on the A636 between Wakefield, West Yorkshire, England and Junction 39 of the M1 motorway. It is a Local Nature Reserve.^{[1] [2]}

The area was developed from a former opencast mine and a sand and gravel quarry and was opened to the public in 1985. It is overlooked by Sandal Castle.

The park comprises two lakes, Both lakes are now dedicated as a nature reserve.^[3]

A gauge miniature railway, running round part of the larger lake, operates on weekends and bank holidays, and cafeteria facilities are available.

The nature reserve is home to a large flock of non-breeding swans, with up to 100 in residence at any time.

The lakes serve as a flood defence by providing an overflow from the River Calder.

Notes and References

1. Web site: Pugneys Country Park. Local Nature Reserves. Natural England. 24 July 2013.
2. Web site: Map of Pugneys Country Park. Local Nature Reserves. Natural England. 24 July 2013.
3. News: Pugneys: Watersports to be 'scaled down' at Yorkshire country park and visitor reception closed to prioritise wildlife. Gardner. Tony. 22 June 2023. The Yorkshire Post. 7 August 2023.