Ravensroost Wood

The remnants of the Royal Hunting Forest of Braydon can be seen dotting the landscape north of Purton between Brinkworth and Cricklade. Over the years various parts of the forest have changed hands between the Aristocracy and sections sold off, leaving a patchwork of woodland and meadow. This variety of habitat produces a varied palette of birds and wildlife.

Much of the forest is owned by the Wiltshire Wildlife Trust and is managed in the traditional way to help preserve the diversity of wildlife. During Spring and Summertime the area is inhabited by Silver-washed Fritillary and White Admiral Butterflies, along with the more common species such as Peacock and Meadow Brown. Careful searching may also produce a Dingy Skipper or Brown Hairstreak. Wild flowers and plants abound in the many meadows spread around the area. Green-winged Orchid, Early Purple and Greater Butterfly Orchids, Adder's Tongue Fern, Spiny Restharrow and Heath Spotted Orchid are just a few to whet the appetite. Bluebells, Wood Anemone, Wood Sorrel, Sanicle, Violet and Primrose and too many more to mention paint colour onto the landscape.

With the capacity to hold more than 100,000 cubic metres of water, Braydon Pond reservoir is the largest body of water for many miles. Wildfowl such as Mallard, and Teal in winter, are usually in residence, along with Cormorants and Canada Geese. Grey Herons, which nest on the lake, are often seen patrolling the periphery for their next meal. Although access is limited the lake can be viewed from the bridge which traverses the northern edge.

A walk around any of the woodland areas should produce a good number of birds. Coal and Marsh Tit can be found in reasonable numbers, along with Nuthatch, Bullfinch and various other common species. Woodcock may be flushed from some of the more damp areas. Dragonflies and damselflies such as Southern Hawker, Common Darter, Azure, Blue-tailed and Large Red can be found around the various ponds, and also in parts of the woodland.

There are many areas worth visiting: Red Lodge Pond, Ravensroost Wood, Somerford Common and Braydon Pond are good starting points with only a few minutes drive time between them. There is only space for one or two cars at the entrance to The Firs and Red Lodge Pond but all the other locations have enough room for several cars. You could, alternatively, spend a day exploring the whole area on foot.