Description
West Blean and Thorndon Woods are a 490 hectare ancient wood that has an ancient droveway through it that is almost a thousand years old, and since that time the woods have seen many changes in habitat and wildlife. With several way-marked walks, you can see wood anemone, bluebell, English oaks, and common beeches, tawny owls and buzzards as well as lesser spotted woodpecker also call the woods and ponds home.
Owned and managed by the Kent Wildlife Trust now and before they bought the woods it was managed commercially for timber, which explains why almost half the wood is covered in plantations of non-native conifer treas. Though over future years the Trust is hoping to regenerate the woods in several ways. There are Konik ponies in this Site of Special Scientific Interest (SSSI). Wooden sculptures to be found during your visit with several walking trails to follow, including a surfaced route.
Opening Hours
All times.
Price
Free.
Parking charges apply.
Accessibility
Level paths lead from the car park, including a 3km (2 miles) hard track that runs the length of the reserve from west to east. Wheelchair accessible circular all-weather walk (1 mile). Information boards are accessible to wheelchair users.
Dogs
On Lead.
Facilities
Parking
Picture Credit: © Kent Wildlife Trust.
