The site is a mosaic of wildflower grassland and scrub, with areas of disturbed ground from old mineral workings. It was saved from development by a local campaign and is now protected as a Site of Special Scientific Interest.
Look out for
Butterflies
- Grizzled Skipper
- Dingy Skipper
- Green Hairstreak
- Purple Hairstreak
- Brown Hairstreak
- Silver-washed Fritillary
- Duke of Burgundy (successfully re-established since 1989)
Moths
- Small Eggar
- Six-belted Clearwing
Plants of note include greater butterfly and bee orchids, dyer's greenweed, and the rare and endemic early gentian. It is also an excellent site for nightingales.
Features
The reserve is privately owned and leased by BC. It is managed by volunteers - with substantial help from a very large rabbit population.
Directions
Grid Reference: ST 272 209
O.S. Map: 193
Size: 8.3 hectares (20 acres)
From the A358 Taunton-Ilminster road, turn south at the Nag's Head Inn at the Thornfalcon/West Hatch cross-roads.
Proceed for approximately one mile, taking the right fork and park before Haddons Farm.
Entrance at ST 274 211 is reached through a caravan and chalet park.
Public transport
The nearest train station is Taunton, it is difficult to reach the reserve by public transport. The Cooks Coach service 99 from Taunton to Chard, stops in Staple Fitzpaine and might be able to drop off closer to West Hatch.
Site Access and safety
A disused road through the site provides easy access, and is suitable for wheelchairs; - access by prior arrangement as the entrance gate has to remain locked.
Contact
Mike Ridge
- 9 Bath Road, Bridgwater, Somerset
- 01278 450793