Cowden Pound Pastures
OS Map 188 TQ 459433: Nr Edenbridge
Post code: TN8 5NP
A small valley with 6 hectares of marshy grassland, unimproved neutral grassland and ancient woodland, 1½ miles (2.4 km) south of Edenbridge.
The northernmost field has abundant anthills and the middle field has one of the largest displays of devil’s-bit scabious in the county. Amongst the other species found are heath and common spotted-orchids, adder’s-tongue and betony. Grass snakes are regularly recorded, as are dormice and purple hairstreak butterflies.
Wildlife update
- Funding from Natural England's Reserve Enhancement Scheme has funded the refurbishment of the entire fence line at the reserve- an essential though expensive project which will enable us to continue to keep the site annually grazed. The grazing along with manual mowing and clearance by staff and volunteers, helps to maintain the magnificent sight of thousands of devil's-bit scabious flowers which can be enjoyed in late summer. The site has also now been entered into the new Higher Level Stewardship Scheme which will provide increased funding for management.
- We have at last been able to arrange for 26 sheep from a local farmer on Asdown Forest to graze the reserve.
