An Upper Thames Branch ‘out of County’ Field Trip to Fineshade Wood, led by Peter Philp

Join us for an out-of-county field trip to Forestry England’s Fineshade Wood. Located north of Corby, the wood offers a picturesque setting for our explorations. It consists of a working forest with areas of ancient and semi-natural woodland scattered amongst the conifer plantations.

We will focus on the more open sunny rides and woodland edges where butterflies like to bask and to nectar on a variety of flowers, particularly Bugle. Target species: Chequered Skipper and other woodland butterflies. However, the reintroduced population is still relatively small, so sightings are not guaranteed.

You can find a copy of the Chequered Skipper at Fineshade Wood Leaflet here. Toilet facilities at Fineshade.

If there is enough time and interest we will stop off at Hazelborough Wood, on the way back, for a chance to see the elusive Wood White.

Please bring a packed lunch and drink, and anything else you may need for the whole day; or be prepared to purchase lunch at the on-site café.

Accessibility & risks: mostly fairly flat level, surfaced paths, at both sites. Please check for ticks after the walk and let the leader know if you have picked up any ticks. (Tick advice)

BOOKING

Please book as FE has asked us to limit numbers so as not to overload parking and trails. This trip will be dependent on enough people willing to drive (hiring a minibus would be too expensive?) We can also arrange suitable meeting places for the journey.

Meeting place(s) to be agreed.