This 47.8 hectares of ancient woodland is a Site of Special Scientific Interest (SSSI) and was purchased in 1973, becoming the first reserve to be owned by the Trust.

The wood is one of the best examples of an ash/oak/maple wood in Nottinghamshire, and stands on poorly drained soils, derived from Mercia Mudstones (formerly Keupar Marl). The canopy is dominated by ash and oak, but also contains aspen, elm, birch, crab apple and wild cherry. The shrub layer comprises hazel, field maple, midland hawthorn, sallow, guelder rose, dogwood and blackthorn. There is vigorous growth of honeysuckle, rose species and bramble.

Flowering plants include many indicative of ancient woodland, such as sweet woodruff, wood sorrel, primrose, wood anemone, and herb Paris. The ponds add interest, supporting marsh marigold, yellow iris, water crowfoot and animals such as great crested newt, smooth newt and more than 12 species of water beetle.

Stoats and foxes are regularly seen in the woodland and large molehills are evident. An extensive bird-ringing programme started in 1972, which included a major nest-box scheme. A common bird census has been undertaken since 1976. The woodland birds include woodcock, jay, great spotted and lesser-spotted woodpecker, nuthatch and, in summer, blackcap, garden warbler and spotted flycatcher. The speckled bush cricket can be found in the wood, being on the northern edge of its range and another indicator of the wood’s age. In 1995 the wood was chosen as the site for the re-introduction of the dormouse in Nottinghamshire.

The aim is to develop the coppice cycle and to maintain a diversity of habitats conducive to the conservation and enhancement of the woodland flora and fauna. The Trust works with a number of woodland craftsmen to help restore the traditional coppice Cycle and to increase the supply of materials for crafts such as hazel hurdle and stick making. Timber from the wood is also used to make charcoal for barbecues. The Trust is currently working with a local farmer who has been rearing pigs in a small section of the wood in an effort to control bramble growth.

The wood (Grid Ref. SK 762789) is situated to the south of the minor road between Grove and Treswell, about three miles east of Retford. It is open at all times, but visitors must keep to the paths. The nature trail in the northern edge of the wood is open to the public in daylight hours. The southern part is a sanctuary area but members may use the rides. There is a car park inside the main entrance for keyholders, and space for a few cars outside. Former owners who shoot in winter (normally on weekdays when warning signs are posted) presently hold sporting rights.

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.