About the reserve

Please note: due to the steepness of the cutting, how wet the site is, and current issues with land slippage of the old railway bank and deterioration of the bridge it is unsafe to visit. The cutting is place for wildlife but not suitable for public access. 

This site contains a disused railway line cutting through lias limestone. It has a rich limestone flora with species such as spotted and bee orchids. 

Towards the western end of the cutting, limestone grassland produces a flourish of wild flowers, including bee orchid, hairy violet and yellow-wort. Many species of butterfly favour this site including the diminutive dingy and grizzled skippers. A colony of white-letter hairstreaks prosper on the elms. The reserve also offers one of the last remaining Warwickshire haunts to the inappropriately named common lizard, which can occasionally be seen sunbathing amongst the bricks.  Much of the cutting is very wet with areas of marshy ground prevalent at the eastern end of the reserve.

A fine population of common spotted-orchid thrives here with impressive stands of giant horsetail. Willowherb, water figwort and common fleabane shade a stream where many scarce invertebrates, including an uncommon solider fly, relish the damp conditions.  

Love wildlife? Become a member and make a difference on your doorstep

As a member, your subscription will help look after local wildlife and our amazing nature reserves across Coventry, Warwickshire and Solihull. You'll receive a range of benefits, including free entry to over 65 local nature reserves, with member only free car parks where available, and our Wild Warwickshire magazine three times a year.

Become a member