Bumble Hole Local Nature Reserve

The area comprising the Bumble Hole Local Nature Reserve and its neighbour, Warren's Hall Local Nature Reserve, once was a scene of industry, including coal mining, clay extraction, coke furnaces and boat building. A railway (known as the Bumble Hole Line) ran through the area, linking Dudley to Old Hill. ==Location==

The reserve is located to the east of Netherton, about 1.5 miles south of Dudley, on the border with Sandwell Metropolitan Borough. Main access is via St Peter's Road, Netherton. ==Landscape==

The reserve contains areas of grassland, small wooded regions, canals and ponds. The Dudley No. 2 Canal runs into the reserve. Two short arms lead off from this canal: the Bumble Hole Branch and the Bushboil Arm. Bumble Hole Lake, a former clay pit, forms the largest body of water in the reserve. so the two reserves effectively form a single visitor attraction. ==Facilities==

A canal-side visitor centre run by volunteers from the Bumble Hole Conservation Group offers information on the reserve, as well as refreshments and toilet facilities. There is also a football pitch. ==Boating festival==

The reserve (plus the neighboring Warren's Hall Local Nature Reserve) is the site for an annual boating festival. The event attracts canal boats every September and features stalls, canal trips and a funfair. ==References==