Cromers Wood
O.S Map 178 TQ 906604 : Nr Sittingbourne
Post code: ME9 8AQ
The reserve is a 28 hectare, ancient semi-natural woodland on the southeast side of a dry slope valley.
Most of the upper slopes and plateau have been converted to sweet chestnut coppice with a few oak standards.The greatest diversity of woodland flora is found on the lowest slopes where the chalk has its greatest effect in reducing soil acidity. On these lower slopes hornbeam, ash, hazel and field maple coppice are present.
Bird numbers fluctuate according to the amount of coppicing carried out. Many of these species can be seen from a hide by the small pond, which is also an important breeding site for frogs, toads and newts.
Directions
By Road:
Situated 1 mile (1.6 km) south of Sittingbourne between Tunstall and Rodmersham. The B2163 runs south from Sittingbourne (Bell Rd). Take a left turn (Broad Oak Rd) towards Sittingbourne Research Centre. Take track to left opposite Woodstock Cottage Farm. Car park 150m.
Public Transport:
Use relevent public transport to Sittingbourne.
Download Reserve Map (PDF)
Key site for
- At least 39 breeding bird species have been noted, including great spotted and green woodpecker, sparrowhawk and six species of warbler.
- Seventeen species of mammal have been observed, including two species of bat.
- Ground flora, particularly on the lower slopes, includes wood anemone, moschatel, primrose, common spotted and early purple orchids. Thirty species indicative of ancient woodland have been recorded, including wood spurge, butcher’s-broom, Solomon’s-seal and herb-Paris.
- Rare micro-moths, characteristic of ancient woodland, have also been discovered here.
