An Upper Thames Branch Guided Walk at Rushbeds Wood, led by Peter Philp

Join us for a trip to Rushbeds Wood and Lapland Farm: a BBOWT nature reserve 7 miles southeast of Bicester. It includes a large area of ancient woodland, though as this was mostly felled in the 1940s, it only containss a few mature Oaks. The woodland is damp and tussocky, and butterflies and other wildlife abound. It also includes a series of damp wildflower meadows with an interesting flora and important hedgerows.

We will walk through the woods to the meadows. It will be worth looking up at prominent ash trees, in the hedgerows and woodland edge, where our target species may be seen flitting around in clusters; and lower down, on flowers such as bramble, where they may be feeding. Target species: Brown Hairstreak and late-summer woodland butterflies.

You are welcome to bring a picnic and chat about all things butterfly, moth and conservation over lunchtime.

Accessibility & risks: paths are flat but often soft, especially after rain. Gates, bench, some roots and other trip hazards. Please check for ticks after the walk and let the leader know if you have picked up any ticks. (Tick advice)

BOOKING

Please check here the evening before the walk to make sure it is going ahead as planned. This page will be updated regularly.

Meet at the reserve car park, 1.25 miles south of Ludgershall, 100m before Boarstall-Wotton Underwood Road. Through gate and over the railway bridge. Please note there is a vehicle height barrier at the entrance.    

Postcode: HP18 0RU

What3Words: clusters.whoever.newlywed