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Dibbinsdale



Brotherton Park and Dibbinsdale comprise an area of over 80 acres (320,000 square metres) of park and woodland along the valley of the River Dibbin. Located between Spital and the village of Bromborough, the valley woodland is a fine example of ancient woodland and is a Site of Special Scientific Interest and once formed part of the Royal forest of Wirral dating back to the end of the last ice age.

Dibbinsdale

Other habitats on the reserve include wildflower meadows, historic parkland and reed swamps at the bottom of the valley, which provide an excellent habitat for birds such as Reed Bunting, Reed and Sedge Warblers, Moorhens, Mallard, Teal, Water rail and Herons. The Nature Reserve provides an attractive and stimulating environment for educational visits. The Ranger's Office and Brotherton Nature Centre are situated around a pleasant courtyard at Woodlsee Cottages.

Dibbinsdale

Education centre, small pond, rangers, regular events, guided walks, car park, toilets, BBQ facility and First Aid points on site.

St. Patrick's Well

OS Grid ref:- SJ34538295

St Patrick's Well is located in Brotherton Park, off Spital Road, and reputed to have been blessed by Saint Patrick before his mission to Ireland in 432. The well is reputed to have healing powers. Legend speaks of St. Patrick visiting Bromborough to whom there are a number of references in the area.

The well, which is signposted, is located a few 100 yards into the park from the entrance at the Dibbinsdale Brook weir end of Spital Road just past the junction with Mill Road.

The term “Brunnr” (as in Bromborough) is old Norse for “spring or well”. The nearby Petrifying Well may have had links with the leper hospital at Spital. It is situated close to the Otters Tunnel and lies hidden in woodland called Patrick Wood which is private land owned by Cheshire Wildlife Trust. St Chad's Well, in Shodwell Wood, is now buried beneath industry.




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