Chris Gomersall / 2020 Vision

Shadwell Wood Nature Reserve

An ancient woodland that is fantastic for spring and summer flowers and is one of the best places in the country to see the extremely rare Oxlip

Location

Shadwell Wood Nature Reserve, Off of Walden Road

Saffron Waldon

CB10 2NB

OS Map Reference

TL574410

Know before you go

Size

7 hectares

Parking information

Park by the track to Little Hales Wood on the opposite side of the road

Walking trails

Lots of circular paths to walk around

Access

Flat terrain with unsurfaced paths that can be wet and slippery

Dogs

Under effective control

When to visit

Opening times

Accessible at all times

Best time to visit

Spring and summer

About the reserve

A true wonder in spring and summer when the woodland floor is brimming with colourful flowers. A deer fence around the reserve has allowed the extremely rare Oxlip to thrive as well as a huge host of other flowers.

In early spring the Oxlips are joined by Wood Violets and Wood Anemones emerging from the woodland floor, that are then followed by Early Purple Orchids and a wonderful display of Bluebells. Into summer you will start seeing Common Spotted Orchids, Meadowsweet and Sanicle, making this reserve a fantastic place to visit to see the changing seasons.

Traditional coppicing methods have encouraged many summer visiting birds to nest. Listen out for the sound of Warblers, Blackcaps or Whitethroats that spend their summer here.