The Park's Pools
| Keeper's Pool was originally built as a fish pond within the mediaeval deer park. The name of the pool suggests that a park keeper's lodge was nearby when the pool was built. The pool dates back to the 15th century and was formed by the damming of a stream. Keeper's Pool is approximately 2
acres and contains Perch and Roach. Blackroot Pool was built in the 18th century with the primary aim of powering a watermill. The lease which allowed the pool to be constructed was granted by the Sutton Corporation in 1757 for 2 shillings (£0.10), well below what appears to have been the 'market rate'. However, the lessees were the Warden and his nephew. The mill was initially used for leather dressing, but later became a water-powered saw mill. The modern saw mill is used to make gates, fences and other timber products from timber produced within Sutton Park. The pool is approximately 12 acres in size. Bracebridge Pool, is one of the largest in the park. The views as you approach this pool are also amongst the finest in Sutton Park. The pool takes its name from Sir Ralph Bracebridge. Bracebridge obtained a life lease on the Chase of Sutton Coldfield in 1419 and made the pool to provide a good supply of bream for his family and friends. The Boat House Restaurant can be found at the edge of Bracebridge Pool. The pool is approximately 16 acres in size. Little Bracebridge Pool was probably originally part of Bracebridge Pool, although it may have been partially separated by a dam to provide an area in which small fish could be reared. Over time, an area of wetland has developed between the two pools. One of the most peaceful places in the park, Little Bracebridge boasts an extensive range of flowering plants which specialize in wet habitats, including some which are now quite rare, such as the Greater Spearwort Powell's Pool is approximately 28 acres and is the largest pool in Sutton Park. Originally built to power an 18th century watermill, it is located at the Boldmere Entrance to the park. At different times, the mill was used to provide power for a number of different industrial processes, including rolling steel for pens. Longmoor Pool is located close to the Banner's Gate entrance to Sutton Park, which is situated adjacent to the junction of Monmouth Drive and Chester Road North. The tranquil beauty of the Longmoor Valley when viewed over its waters makes it hard to believe that originally the pool was built in 1735 to power an industrial watermill. Initially it was used in the manufacture of buttons. An anonymous writer of the time complained that:
Originally built as a mediaeval fish pond, Wyndley Pool is situated adjacent to the Wyndley Leisure Centre complex. It can be accessed from Clifton Road and is very close to the Wyndley Gate entrance (which is closed to vehicular access). |