This site is an ancient hillfort with steep limestone grassland slopes, in a spectacular location on the Mendip Hills. Wildflowers and butterflies abound. Fine views over the Somerset Levels, across the Bristol Channel to Wales, and south to Glastonbury Tor and Dorset
Look out for
Butterflies
- Chalkhill Blue
- Small Blue
- Brown Argus
- Marbled White
- Grayling
- Dark Green Fritillary
Plants of note include green-winged orchids, autumn ladies tresses, kidney and horse-shoe vetch.
Directions
Grid Reference: ST 492 512
O.S. Map: 182
Size: 10.7 hectares (26 acres)
The reserve lies above Rodney Stoke Woods (National Nature Reserve) and next to Draycott Sleights and House Ground (Somerset Wildlife Trust Reserves) on the Mendip ridge above Draycott.
From Draycott:
- Turn up New Road by the old Methodist Chapel (now flats).
- Proceed up this steep narrow lane for three-quarters of a mile.
- Park on left beside entrance to Draycott Sleights reserve (Somerset Wildlife Trust).
- Cross the road, go through the gate and cross the field ('House Ground') walking slightly uphill. The field gate in the far wall is the reserve entrance.
Public transport
Draycott village is on the A371 between Cheddar and Wells and served by local bus routes from both Weston-Super-Mare and Wells.
Site Access and safety
Much of the reserve is steeply sloping but there are more level areas and manageable paths. Cattle graze the site in autumn and winter.
Contact
Dudley Cheesman
- Telephone: 01458 251451