Trees

The raisond'etre of the reserve, is the chalk grasslands, but the woodlands do have some interesting species and are wonderful places to walk. There are a series of paths in a grid system, with some routes way-marked but some not. Visitors are free to way along any path, in any direction.
The aim is to maintain the paths and rides reasonably clear of nettles, brambles and tripping hazards, but visitors should remember, this area is not a city park, and normal care and attention when walking in the woods is needed.
There are several areas that have been cleared of trees, and where glades have been (are being) created, and this is designed to increase the variety of habitats and to encourage some the of the woodland flowers and butterflies.
The line of trees along the lower area of the reserve - running parallel to the road, is the more interesting group, with some magnificent Beeches over 200 years old. On the top of the reserve is a mixture of lovely old Hornbeams, Beeches, Yew, Hazel, and some rather less interesting Ash, Sycamore and Larch. All have their place, but we are undertaking a programme of thinning out the less interesting examples, and intend to plant some more interesting specimens.