RAINWORTH HEATH NATURE RESERVE
Introduction
This heathland site covers over 16 hectares and includes areas of both wet and dry heath. As heathland is now very scarce in the UK, Rainworth Heath has been designated as a Site of Special Scientific Interest (SSSI).
About the reserve
Lowland heath was once common on the sandstone areas of Nottinghamshire, and much of Sherwood Forest was once covered in heathland. Most of this has now been lost to agriculture and forestry and Rainworth Heath is one of the last remaining areas of heathland in Nottinghamshire. This site is notable for having areas of both dry and wet heath. Wet heath is now extremely scarce in the County. The wettest locations are characterised by peaty pools fringed with sphagnum moss and bulbous rush, these occur where water emerges from the Sherwood Sandstone. These areas are dominated by plants such as purple moor-grass, cross-leaved heath, common sedge and cotton grass, while well-trodden paths support heath rush.
The drier heathland includes species such as heather, bell heather, bracken, wavy hair-grass sheep's sorrel and mat grass. Higher ground to the east of the site holds stands of broom and gorse, and the western edge of the reserve has developing birch woodland. Birds recorded include green woodpecker, tree pipit, turtle dove and several species of warbler.
Conservation management
The aim is to conserve the plant communities characteristic of lowland heath by appropriate management, including re-establishment of heather, control of bracken and scrub, grazing though for much of the year, the site is home to a number of Hebridean sheep from the Trust’s flying flock.
How to get there
The site is open to the public and access is via a gate on the private road leading from Rainworth village to Rufford Colliery at SK 594591. Please do not park on the road.
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.
The management of the site is supported by the Mansfield Sand Company Ltd. This support will enable the Trust to carry out a wide range of on site improvements and to establish closer links with the local community.
