Thorpe Woods Nature Reserve

This beautiful ancient woodland consists of a canopy of oak and ash with hazel and field maple below. The northern section is actively managed by traditional coppicing with baskets weaved around the stools to stop deer and rabbits grazing on them. The ground flora is diverse here, especially in spring when there are lots of wood anemones and a spectacular display of bluebells. The heavy clay soils provide the necessary ground conditions for ramsons, or wild garlic, to thrive - with its distinctive smell.

There are a number of very large mature oaks, which provide an excellent home for a range of invertebrates. Woodpeckers can be frequently heard tapping in the summer.