The Silk Stream winds for just over 4 kilometres from near Edgware Hospital to flow into the Welsh Harp. Its tributary Burnt Oak Brook runs for about 1.5 kilometres from near the M1 motorway and meets the Silk Stream at Burnt Oak. Although very much an urban river system, throughout its length there are narrow strips of scrub and grassland on either side. These form a valuable green corridor through the built-up area. The stream is best seen in the parks it passes through, which include Silkstream Park, Montrose Recreation Ground and Rushgrove Park.
Local Wildlife Site
Accessible Sites of Importance for Nature Conservation
Silk Stream and Burnt Oak Brook
Borough: Barnet
Grade: Borough Grade II
Access: Free public access (part of site)
Area: 8.71 ha
Description
Wildlife
The rivers support little water plant life, though curled pondweed, Nuttall's waterweed and floating sweet-grass occur in places. Mallards and grey wagtails can often be seen, and three-spined sticklebacks are present.Facilities
Silkstream Park, Montrose Recreation Ground and Rushgrove Park all have playgrounds.
Burnt Oak Brook in winter © Jan Hewlett
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