Darland Bank
O.S Map 178 TQ 792654: Nr Gillingham
Post code: ME7 3ER
About 45 hectares of chalk grassland, scrub and woodland on south facing slopes.
Many of the typical species of chalk grassland are present. Marjoram, kidney vetch and wild thyme are common within the sward of upright brome, red fescue and Timothy grass. In early and mid-summer, good numbers of man and pyramidal orchid can be seen. Late summer often brings a striking display of field scabious and black knapweed.
Cattle grazing was introduced in 1991 and most of the reserve is now grazed in late summer and autumn. Goats are grazed permanently on the West bank, please keep dogs on lead.
Directions
By Road:
Follow the A2 to Gillingham and turn into Darland Ave (by Star Inn). There is a small car park at the end of Star Lane. Alternatively, from the M2 take the A278 to Gillingham. Turn left at the second roundabout, left at the mini-roundabout, and immediately right into Hoath Close where there is limited parking.
Public Transport:
Bus from Gillingham along A2 (¾ mi/1.2 km).
Download Reserve Map (PDF)
Key site for
- Chalk grassland flora: Marjoram, kidney vetch and wild thyme are common within the sward of upright brome, red fescue and Timothy grass. In early and mid-summer, good numbers of man and pyramidal orchid can be seen. Late summer often brings a striking display of field scabious and black knapweed.
- Amphibians: wid variety of lizards, adders and slow worms.
- Insect life: chalkhill and common blue, marbled white and green hairstreak. Moths include straw belle and fox moth. Great green and Roesel’s bush-cricket can also be seen and heard on sunny days in late summer. Glow-worms are also present.
- Increasing numbers of birds breeding and feeding on the chalk banks.
