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The dominant trees in this oxlip woodland are oak and ash, with coppiced hazel and maple growing beneath them. It also has midland hawthorns, rare trees such as lineage elm and bird cherry, and Daphne mezereum, popular for the garden but rare in the wild.
A host of flowering plants grow on the woodland floor. Early spring brings oxlips, wood violets and wood anemones. These give way to early purple orchids, bluebells, bugle and herb paris. Summer brings common spotted orchids, meadowsweet and sanicle.
Visiting
On the main road from Saffron Walden, about one mile before the village of Ashdon. Entrance by a track at the side of 'Barleycroft' bungalow. In dry weather, park at end of track to Shadwell Wood, otherwise by the track to Lt Hales Wood on the opposite side of the road. Please do not block either track.
Accessible at all times
Spring through to early summer for flowers and early migrant birds.
Unsuitable for wheelchairs. Bench at top of Chivers Ride with good views of butterflies for those who can't walk far.
Please keep your dog on a lead.
Please keep deer gates shut. Leaflet available at the entrance to the wood.
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