Jenny Smith
Soham Meadow
A traditional hay meadow exceptionally rich in wildflowers
Location
Soham
Ely
Cambridgeshire
OS Map Reference
TL 609 727
Know before you go
Size
4 hectares
Entry fee
NoParking information
On A142, 3/4 of a mile north of roundabout junction with the A1123, park in layby on leftGrazing animals
YesWalking trails
Walk in on busy road verge; steep slope under bridge;rough ground in meadow
Access
Not suitable for wheelchairs or pushchairs
Dogs
On a lead
When to visit
Opening times
Open at all timesBest time to visit
spring and summerAbout the reserve
Lying on the side of the Soham Lode, this traditional hay meadow is exceptionally rich in wildflowers. The grassy sward includes many meadow species including sweet vernal-grass and red fescue, with cowslip and milkwort in the drier areas. Wetter areas support a mixture of grasses, sedges and rushes. Among these can be found marsh valerian, adder's-tongue fern, and pepper-saxifrage. Thick hedgerows border the meadow, providing valuable habitat for birds such as wintering flocks of redwing and fieldfare.
Species
Habitat
Contact us
Contact number: 01954 713500
Contact email: cambridgeshire@wildlifebcn.org
Environmental designation
Site of Special Scientific Interest (SSSI)