Hailing from the realms of protected lands, stands the Bradfield Woods National Nature Reserve, a sanctuary teeming with diverse flora and fauna.

Timeless Bradfield Woods, one of Britain's prized ancient woodlands, has been meticulously managed through traditional coppicing since 1252.

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2025 September 24 . 5:47 PM

2 min read

National Forest Reserve Located at Bradfield Woods

Hailing from the realms of protected lands, stands the Bradfield Woods National Nature Reserve, a sanctuary teeming with diverse flora and fauna.

Exploring Bradfield Woods: A Journey Through One of Britain's Ancient Woodlands

Nestled in the heart of England lies Bradfield Woods, one of Britain's finest ancient woodlands, boasting a rich history and diverse wildlife. This hidden gem offers a unique experience for nature enthusiasts and casual visitors alike.

Before embarking on your journey, it's important to note that dogs are welcome in Bradfield Woods, but for the sake of wildlife conservation, they must be kept on a short lead. If you plan to visit with a group, it's essential to contact them in advance to ensure a smooth visit.

Upon arrival, you'll find a trail guide either under the notice board near the entrance or at the visitor centre. The woods are home to 5 miles of trails, with 3 coloured trails of different lengths to cater to various preferences.

As you wander through the woods, you'll notice some ash coppice stools that are thought to be over 1000 years old, a testament to the long-standing tradition of coppicing in the area. This practice not only promotes excellent cover for migrant songbirds like garden warbler, blackcap, and willow warbler but also contributes to the overall health of the woodland.

However, there are a few rules to keep in mind. Drones are not allowed to fly without express permission, and access to the woods is unsuitable for wheelchairs. Grazing animals are present, and it's essential to respect their space.

Sadly, parking information and the OS Map Reference for Bradfield Woods are not provided. But fear not, the location can be found using what3words: water.grass.ambitions.

As for facilities, specific details are not provided. It's recommended to come prepared with essentials such as water, snacks, and appropriate footwear.

Entry to Bradfield Woods does come with a fee, although the amount is not specified. For a deeper understanding of the long tradition of coppicing at Bradfield Woods, we recommend watching a short film featuring Alex Lack, the Woodlands Warden at Suffolk Wildlife Trust. The link to the film can be found here: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=y55_14LBWAM&t

Lastly, Bradfield Woods is home to a variety of mammals, including the stoat, yellow-necked mouse, dormouse, and badger. On sunny summer days, the sheltered rides create the perfect habitat for 24 species of butterflies, including the white admiral and purple hairstreak.

So, whether you're a seasoned nature lover or simply seeking a peaceful retreat, Bradfield Woods offers an unforgettable experience. Just remember to respect the rules and the wildlife, and you're sure to have a memorable visit.