Access is straightforward although there are no obvious paths. The western boundary fence-line is not very clear and take care not to stray into the neighbouring property's grounds.

The wooded area covered by the reserve was an arable field in 1847 and most of the trees have grown up since the field became uncultivated. This now forms a rich secondary woodland with Oak, Ash, Silver Birch, Wild Cherry, Hawthorn, Beech, Holly and Crab-Apple, together with numerous Yews of varying age. In addition, there are several large Scots Pine and Larch trees. The understorey is similarly diverse with Spindle, Hazel, Dogwood, Wild Privet, Wild Gooseberry, Field Maple, and the typical Doward calcicoles, Whitebeam and Spurge Laurel. An area at the north end which has frequent Hawthorn and fast-growing shrubs like Elder, Ash and Silver Birch may have arisen by natural regeneration. Lower Wood was heavily thinned in 1997 and the canopy cover is between 50-60%. As a result the ground flora is dominated by growth of Bramble and Bracken, mixed in with some Honeysuckle and Wild Clematis. The old field boundaries of the wood are marked by the ruined stone walls and twisted Beech hedges so typical of the Doward; some of the large Oaks and Beeches in the wood probably date from the middle of the 19th century when the land was cultivated.

The ground flora is not particularly rich, with Dog's Mercury dominant and some Wood Spurge, Woodruff and Ramsons present. The most interesting plants are to be found in early Spring, when a few spikes of Early Purple Orchid appear. Bird's Nest Orchid has also been recorded.

Following thinning operations in recent years, the aim of any future management will be to maintain the age-structure and diversity of the woodland, while encouraging any natural regeneration which may take place. A number of nest-boxes have been placed in the wood.

A gift to the Trust in 1983 by Miss F.H.C. Crampton.

Download reserve details 629kb