About the reserve

A single field of species rich unimproved calcareous grassland with some blocks of bramble, scrub and mature hedgerows

The reserve lies on Lower Lias Limestone and the whole site has been quarried for flagstones in the past. The soils that have developed since the quarrying ceased are very shallow which has encouraged a diverse flora to develop. Look out for Greater Knapweed, Wooley Thistle, Wild Parsnip, Cowslip, Marjoram, Common Thyme, Large Thyme and Salad Burnet. Grass Vetchling and also Pyramidal Orchids in late May early June. Two of the commonest grasses here are Meadow Oat Grass and Upright Brome.

The grassy mounds in the field are Yellow Meadow Ant anthills. Other insects found here include the very large Great Green Bushcricket, the butterflies Brown Hairstreak, Grizzled Skipper, Speckled Wood, Marbled White and Common Blue.

These hedges are thick with Oak, Hawthorn, Field Maple, Spindle, Buckthorn and lots of young Elm.