The mill pond is a remnant of a commercial flour mill that operated on this site for centuries.
The reserve is officially designated as a Local Nature Reserve (LNR) to protect its rare chalk stream habitat.
Kingfishers are frequently sighted darting over the mill pond, particularly near the weir.
The reserve acts as a natural flood defense system for the residential areas of Andover.
The site includes a mixture of open water, wet woodland, and unimproved grassland, which supports a high density of invertebrate species.
Rooksbury Mill Local Nature Reserve is a 22-acre site in Andover featuring a historic mill pond and diverse wetland habitats along the River Anton. The area consists of two lakes, reedbeds, and wildflower meadows managed to encourage local biodiversity, including water voles and kingfishers. The site serves as a vital flood alleviation area for the town of Andover. Walking paths circulate around the water bodies and connect to the wider Test Valley landscape. Historic evidence suggests a mill has existed on this location since at least the Domesday Book of 1086.
The wooden bridge overlooking the weir where the mill pond flows into the river.
Bring waterproof footwear if visiting after rainfall, as the trails near the riverbank can become muddy.
Keep dogs on a lead in sensitive areas to avoid disturbing the ground-nesting birds and water voles.
Park in the designated Barlows Lane car park to access the main trail loop directly.
Do not attempt to feed the waterfowl, as this disrupts the ecological balance of the pond and encourages pest populations.
Stay on marked paths to protect the wetland ecosystem and carry away all litter.
