About the reserve

Just outside Cranmore, Ningwood Common has a rich history  - returning serviceman settled the area after World War One, but the heavy clay soils were difficult to farm so many of the plots were abandoned and have since returned to woodland. The mix of habitats is fantastic for wildlife – it’s a haven for red squirrels and dormice. In the summer, you can follow the woodland path and look for silver-washed fritillaries and white admirals flitting about in the sunlight.

If you’re an early riser, listen for the iconic song of the nightingale at one of its few remaining strongholds. Later at dusk the elusive nightjar can be heard churring and the ghostly silhouette of a barn owl silently hunting its prey emerges from the trees. The heathland of Ningwood Common is home to the reddish buff moth – this is the only place it can now be found in the UK.