High Wood and Meadow
Location
Daventry
Northamptonshire
OS Map Reference
SP 593 548
Know before you go
Entry fee
NoParking information
Park at the end of Mantles Heath WoodGrazing animals
YesWalking trails
Most woodland paths are even and firm. Meadow is uneven and with some areas burrowed by rabbits. Stiles and kissing gates feature
Park at the end of Mantles Heath Wood; Walk along the edge of the wood, turn right at first gateway and follow hedge downhill. Most woodland paths are even and firm. Meadow is uneven with rabbit burrows, Stiles and kissing gates.
Access
Unsuitable for wheelchairs
Dogs
When to visit
Opening times
Open at all timesBest time to visit
AnytimeAbout the reserve
High Wood is an enchanting ancient woodland full of wild cherry trees and a rich ground flora. It was coppiced in the traditional way through the centuries, meaning that shrubs and trees were regularly cut to ground level to give a reliable supply of wood for fuel and tools. Coppicing lets sunlight into the wood, encouraging bluebells and other woodland flowers to flourish. The rare opposite-leaved golden-saxifrage is found in damper areas. Much of the meadow is acidic grassland where herbs such as cat's-ear, tormentil, sheep's sorrel and heath bedstraw grow.