King’s Wood NNR, Heath and Reach

Overview

King’s Wood NNR has now been incorporated within the neighbouring Rushmere Country Park. Together with the nearby Baker;s Wood SSSI, it is said to be the largest area of semi-natural woodland in the county although parts of the wood lie across the boundary into Buckinghamshire. The woodland has been parcelled up into smaller plots of land that have been sold to a variety of individuals and organisations. Some are owned by the Wildlife Trust, others by the Greensand Trust and yet more are privately owned by individuals. The complexity of ownership makes management by the environmental groups sometimes challenging and work parties are restricted in what can be achieved without agreement from Natural England. Much of the woodland lies on glacial Boulder Clay. During wet weather the ground can become waterlogged and muddy which can restrict the number of visitors. Small-leaved Lime trees and large areas of Bluebells and Lily-of-the-Valley are a particular feature of the wood.

Parking

The car park at the Stockgrove entrance is managed by the Greensand Trust. It is ANPR monitored and will require payment. Cross the Brickhill Road and enter the large meadow. There are several entry points into the woodland from this meadow and these are located on the right from the paths The Stockgrove car park holds a café and toilets.

Birds