Sandylay and Moat Woods Nature Reserve

Wood Anemone Guy Edwardes 2020 Vision

Guy Edwardes / 2020 Vision

Sandylay and Moat Woods Nature Reserve

Two attractive woods adjacent to each other that in spring are covered with an array of woodland flowers

Location

Sandylay and Moat Woods Nature Reserve
Great Leighs
CM3 1PS

OS Map Reference

TL737174
A static map of Sandylay and Moat Woods Nature Reserve

Know before you go

Size
8 hectares
P

Parking information

Parking for 2 cars off Mill lane on wide grass verge, then walk down a public footpath (271 meters)

Walking trails

Circular paths around the reserve 

Access

Un-surfaced with gentle slopes, muddy at times 

Dogs

Under effective control

Under effective control

When to visit

Opening times

Accessible at all times

Best time to visit

Spring

About the reserve

Stand back and admire the very old and large lime tree in the middle of Sandylay Wood whilst in spring and early summer the woodland floor is home to a variety of colourful flowering plants.

Wood Anemones pop up along the small stream whilst primroses line the pathways and rides. Other species to look out for include Sweet Violet, Early Purple Orchid and Twayblade. Stinking Iris plants are found here, which at certain times of year are said to have a faint smell of roast beef.

Work has been undertaken to replace the confider plantations with native broadleaved trees to benefit wildlife.

Environmental designation

Ancient Woodland
Local Wildlife Site (LWS)