By Steve Aylward
Herb paris by Steve Aylward
By Steve Aylward
Early purple orchid by Steve Aylward
By Steve Aylward
By Steve Aylward
By Steve Aylward
Groton Wood Nature Reserve
Location
OS Map Reference
TL976429
Know before you go
Entry fee
Free.Access
Not suitable for wheelchairs.
No drone flying without express permission.
(Permission will only be granted in exceptional circumstances)
Dogs
When to visit
Opening times
Open at all timesBest time to visit
March to SeptemberAbout the reserve
Brimstone butterflies feed on sunny spring days and woodcock display at dusk. This ancient woodland is noted for its small-leaved lime coppice, this is an indication that the northern part of the wood has existed since prehistoric times. The other species to note in Groton Woods is its large wild cherry trees, -it is one of only a few ancient woodlands in Suffolk with this species.
Groton Wood is unusual in that is has 22 seasonal ponds. These are good places to spot frog, toad and newt including the protected great-crested newt.
The rides are bursting with bluebell, pignut and early-purple orchid with shadier areas being characterised by violet helleborine, woodruff and herb-paris. 15 species of butterfly have been recorded at Groton Wood including brimstone, speckled wood and purple hairstreak whose caterpillars feed on oak. Summer songsters include black cap, willow warbler and chiffchaff, while other birds such as treecreeper, all three woodpecker species, woodcock and nuthatch are resident here.