The Lines way is a stunning green corridor that links 3.5 miles of varying habitats and communities from Garforth to Allerton Bywater. It provides high quality habitat for a range of species including a network of ponds and ditches that are host to a realm of freshwater life. In spring and summer, watch carefully in the ponds to catch a glimpse of the smooth and great-crested newts.

The wildflower corridor flourishes with common spotted orchids and clustered bellflower and a visit at dusk may be rewarded with the sight of glow worms.Come the autumn and winter months overwintering songbirds can be seen and heard along the site.

Wildlife boards are available along the length of the site, providing a wealth of information about the wildlife value and history of the nature reserve.

The Leeds, Castleford and Pontefract Junction Railway, which the Lines Way is part of, was opened in 1878 and the Bowers Junction to Garforth section closed in 1969. Happily, today it still provides a valuable recreational route, albeit for walkers, cyclists and horse riders travelling under their own steam.

The Lines links the settlements of Garforth and Allerton Bywater. Along it's route there is the opportunity to access several other Trust reserves - Letchmire Pastures, Hollinghurst Wood, Owl Wood and Pit Plantation and Townclose Hills.

The Lines Way is part of a corridor of green spaces in the Lower Aire Valley in Leeds which is managed in partnership between Yorkshire Wildlife Trust and Leeds City Council. Contact the Reserves Officer to get involved in with the Lower Aire Valley volunteer group.

• Spring: Amphibians - Common frog; Birds - Cuckoo
• Summer: Birds - Whitethroat; Invertebrates - Ringlet
• Autumn: Birds - Long-tailed tit; Bullfinch
• Winter: Birds - Linnet

Public transport
Regular buses run between Castleford and Allerton Bywater.

By car
On the M1 south take Junction 47 onto the A656 and follow this down to Allerton Bywater. On approach take a right turn onto Park Lane and the entrance is on your right as you travel along the lane. Parking is on the roadside.