Introduction

This 24 hectare ancient woodland site is owned by the Trust, having been purchased from the Forestry Commission in 1983.The wood is a designated Site of Special Scientific Interest (SSSI).

About the reserve

Eaton Wood was recorded as pasture woodland in the Domesday records and areas of an old ridge and furrow ploughing system can still be seen. The wood is now mainly ash and elm and overgrown hazel coppice. Oak, field maple, sallow and silver birch are scattered throughout the wood and, following tree felling, the Forestry Commission replanted extensively with pine and beech in the 1950s. A substantial ditch and bank system on the eastern side, which forms both parish and wood boundaries, and two hollow ways, sunken tracks of ancient origin, are also evident within the wood.

The site is very important for its rich ground flora. Primrose, wood anemone and bluebell are present as are several species of orchid, including early purple, common spotted, greater butterfly, and broad-leaved helleborine. Other species present include moschatel, herb Paris, wood sorrel, yellow archangel, lady’s mantle and sweet woodruff.

At least a dozen species of butterfly have been recorded and the site is also home to many woodland bird species. The best time to visit is from mid-April to the end of June.

Conservation Management

The main aim is to safeguard the flora by careful management, particularly the reinstatement of rotational coppicing. Most of the conifers and non-indigenous trees will eventually be removed and replaced through the natural regeneration of native species.

How to get there

The reserve is open to the public but visitors must keep to the paths. The entrance (Grid Ref. SK 727772) is midway on the minor road from Eaton to Upton. The wood is on the north side of the minor road opposite Gamston Wood. There is a little car parking space at the entrance to the reserve, otherwise cars should be parked on main road with care. Please keep cars off the roadside verges as these are rich in flower species and part of the SSSI.

Local contact: Hugh Palin, Flat 5, West Retford Hall, Rectory Road, Retford, Notts DN22 7AY.

Further Information

If you would like further details about the reserve, or if you are interested in getting involved in the management of the site, please call the Nottinghamshire Wildlife Trust office on 0115 958 8242.