Westhouse Wood Nature Reserve

Wood Anemone

Photo - Mark Hamblin / 2020VISION

Common Frog

Photo - Mark Hamblin / 2020VISION

Foxglove
Wander through the ancient trees, passing by idyllic ponds and woodland flowers that fill this little pocket of nature

Location

Colchester Road
West Bergholt
Colchester
Essex
CO6 3JY

OS Map Reference

TL975271
A static map of Westhouse Wood Nature Reserve

Know before you go

Size
3 hectares
P

Parking information

Limited parking on the access track

Walking trails

A circular footpath leads around the wood and up 

Access

The path slopes in places and can be slippery when wet

Dogs

Dogs permitted

Under effective control

When to visit

Opening times

Accessible at all times

Best time to visit

April to July

About the reserve

Although small in size, this little pocket of ancient woodland is brimming with Hazel Coppice, Small-leaved Lime, Crab Apple and Rowan trees, mixed between the trunks of old Oaks, Ash and Sweet Chestnut, Holly and Field Maple.

Look to the branches for a variety of birds species that call this wood home, while in spring the coppiced areas boast Bluebells and Wood Anemones, their purple and white flowers providing a splash of colour among the green leaves. Into autumn and the leaves fade to red and gold as they start to fall. Wandering through the woodland clearings beautiful Foxgloves can be found growing in the cleared areas.

Have a look for the three small ponds, where you can try and spot Smooth Newts and Frogs coming up for a breath of air. 

Contact us

Environmental designation

Local Wildlife Site (LWS)