| At the back of Therfield Heath is a small
but attractive beech woodland called Fox Covert. The woodland forms an
interesting contrast to the surrounding open grassland.
Fox Covert is of quite recent origin, being planted in the late nineteenth century with beech. Many of these trees have become tall and thin and the gales of 1987 and 1990 caused several to come down. The resulting upturned root boles show how shallow -rooted beech trees are and also how close to the surface the underlying chalk is. Beech woodlands generally cast a deep shade where little grows beneath, except for the pale flower spikes of the white helleborine. The gales have created more open areas where wild privet, sycamore, ash and beech are quickly regenerating. Some fallen trees have been left on the ground as they provide a valuable micro-habitat for many invertebrates and fungi. The woodland is frequented by deer and many species of birds. The Trust owns the reserve which is part of Therfield Heath Site of Special Scientific Interest. |
 The reserve is managed in order to maintain and enhance the diversity
of species. |
| Visiting |
 The reserve is just south of the A505. At the roundabout just
west of Royston, turn off past the 'Little Chef', then turn right, sign-posted
to Therfield. At the top of the hill there is a small lay-by on the left
for parking. Opposite this follow the path into Fox Covert. |
 Bus stop and train station in Royston: two minutes walk to Therfield
Heath. |
 Accessible at all times. |
 All year. |
 Good walking shoes recommended. |