Lower Woods Nature Reserve
Explore southwest England’s largest ancient woodland, a sanctuary of wildflowers, butterflies, and tranquil river meadows year-round.
Lower Woods Nature Reserve, located near Wickwar and Wotton-under-Edge, is the largest ancient woodland in southwest England, spanning nearly 300 hectares. Renowned for its rich biodiversity, it features native broad-leaved trees, diverse wildflowers, and a variety of wildlife including butterflies and birds. Visitors can explore tranquil meadows, ancient coppices, and the Little Avon River, experiencing year-round natural beauty and seasonal floral displays.
A brief summary to Lower Woods Nature Reserve
- Inglestone Rd, Wotton-under-Edge, Wickwar, GL9 1BX, GB
- Visit website
- Duration: 1 to 4 hours
- Free
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Outdoor
- Mobile reception: 4 out of 5
Local tips
- Wear sturdy boots as some paths can be muddy and boggy, especially after rain.
- Dogs must be kept on short leads between March 1 and July 31 to protect wildlife.
- Visit in spring for spectacular bluebell carpets and in summer for diverse butterfly species.
- Bring binoculars for birdwatching and a camera to capture the vibrant wildflowers and woodland scenes.
For the on-the-go comforts that matter to you
- Restrooms
- Seating Areas
- Picnic Areas
- Trash Bins
- Information Boards
Getting There
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Car
Driving from M5 Junction 14, take the B4509 towards Wickwar and follow Inglestone Common track to the reserve entrance. The track is rough with potholes, so drive slowly. Parking is free with about 30 spaces available. Travel time from junction: approximately 20-30 minutes.
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Public Transport
Take a train to Yate station, then a local bus or taxi to Wickwar village. From Wickwar, the reserve is accessible by a 2-3 km walk along country lanes and tracks. Total travel time from Bristol city center is about 1.5 to 2 hours.
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Walking
For local walkers, multiple footpaths enter Lower Woods from surrounding villages including Wickwar and Hawkesbury Upton. Terrain can be uneven and muddy, suitable for moderate fitness levels. Walking times vary depending on start point, typically 30 minutes to 1 hour.
Lower Woods Nature Reserve location weather suitability
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Any Weather
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Rain / Wet Weather
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Clear Skies
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Mild Temperatures
Discover more about Lower Woods Nature Reserve
A Vast Ancient Woodland Rich in History
Lower Woods is a sprawling nature reserve covering almost 300 hectares, making it the largest ancient woodland in southwest England. Its boundaries have remained largely unchanged for centuries, preserving a mosaic of 23 separate woods and coppices. Historically, the woodland was managed through coppicing, a traditional technique that encouraged diverse habitats by creating trees of varying ages. Though this practice was abandoned for a time, its recent reintroduction has helped restore species diversity and encouraged the return of rare wildlife such as the marsh fritillary butterfly.Flora and Fauna Highlights
The reserve is home to a wide variety of native broad-leaved trees including oak, ash, hazel, small-leaved lime, and wild service trees, which bear distinctive chequers in autumn. The woodland floor bursts into color with carpets of bluebells in spring, alongside early purple orchids, greater butterfly orchids, and herb Paris. Summer brings wildflower-rich meadows featuring ragged-robin, common-spotted orchids, betony, and devil’s-bit scabious. Standing deadwood throughout the woods supports important insect and invertebrate habitats. Birdlife is abundant, with species such as woodpeckers, nuthatches, and historically nightingales, which are making a comeback thanks to habitat restoration.Landscape and Water Features
Lower Woods is not only dense woodland but also includes open banks and meadows, with the Little Avon River flowing through the reserve before joining the River Severn. Abraham’s Walk, also known locally as Adder Bank, is a large open glade historically favored by adders for basking. Recent conservation efforts have reopened this area to encourage the return of these reptiles. The variety of habitats—from wet meadows to dense woods—creates a rich tapestry of natural environments to explore.Visitor Experience and Trails
Visitors can enjoy several waymarked trails, including a popular 9 km loop that combines Lower Woods with Lady’s Wood, offering accessible walking with minimal elevation changes. The paths wind through ancient woodland and open meadows, providing excellent opportunities for wildlife spotting, including butterflies, deer, and badgers. The terrain can be muddy and uneven in places, so sturdy footwear is recommended. The reserve is open year-round, with each season offering unique natural spectacles—from spring bluebells to autumnal colors.Conservation and Management
Lower Woods is jointly managed by the Gloucestershire Wildlife Trust and Avon Wildlife Trust, focusing on restoring traditional woodland management practices like coppicing to enhance biodiversity. Non-native conifers planted in the mid-20th century are gradually being replaced by native species to restore the natural broad-leaved woodland character. The reserve emphasizes sustainable conservation, balancing public access with habitat protection to maintain its ecological integrity.Practical Information and Accessibility
The reserve is situated off Inglestone Road near Wickwar, with free parking available for around 30 vehicles. Access tracks can be rough and boggy in places, so visitors are advised to proceed carefully. Dogs are welcome but must be kept on short leads during certain months to protect wildlife. Facilities are limited, so visitors should come prepared. The reserve offers a tranquil and immersive natural experience, ideal for nature lovers, families, and anyone seeking peaceful woodland exploration.Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
Somerset Monument
2.7 km
A towering Victorian tribute to Lord Robert Edward Somerset, commanding panoramic views over the historic Cotswold landscape.
Walk The Cotswolds
18.6 km
Explore the Cotswolds' breathtaking landscapes and charming villages with Walk The Cotswolds, your gateway to England's picturesque countryside adventures.
Southmead Round Barrow
19.5 km
Explore the ancient Southmead Round Barrow, a Bronze Age burial mound nestled within Bristol’s tranquil Badock’s Wood.
Bristol Rocks
20.6 km
Discover the beauty and adventure of Bristol Rocks, the ultimate destination for rock climbing enthusiasts and nature lovers in the heart of Bristol.
Bristol Castle
21.4 km
Discover the historic heart of Bristol at Castle Park, where medieval ruins meet serene urban green space along the scenic Welsh Back waterfront.
Cheese Lane Shot Tower
21.4 km
Bristol's brutalist shot tower—where gravity shaped ammunition and history shaped preservation.
Templar Stone
21.5 km
Explore the evocative ruins of Bristol’s 12th-century Temple Church, a landmark steeped in Knights Templar history and medieval mystery.
Fermentation Buildings
21.6 km
Grade II-listed former brewery warehouses reborn as a creative office and waterfront dining hub on Bristol’s Floating Harbour.
Historic England - Bristol Office
21.6 km
Discover Bristol's rich history and heritage at the Historic England office, a key player in preserving the city's architectural treasures.
Temple Church
21.6 km
Explore the evocative ruins and leaning tower of Bristol’s medieval Temple Church, a testament to the Knights Templar’s enduring legacy.
Old City Walls
21.6 km
Trace the vanished medieval walls that shaped Bristol’s historic Old City, revealing centuries of rich heritage and urban evolution.
St Mary Le Port Church
21.7 km
Historic Saxon-era church ruins in Bristol’s Castle Park, a poignant landmark of medieval heritage and wartime resilience.
Royal Talbot Buildings
21.7 km
Discover the Royal Talbot Buildings in Redcliffe, Bristol: A luxurious executive suite experience perfect for your city escape.
Medieval Vaults
21.7 km
Explore Bristol’s hidden medieval cellars beneath High Street, where Gothic vaults tell tales of centuries past beneath the city’s modern bustle.
Bristol Bridge
21.7 km
A historic Georgian stone bridge spanning Bristol’s floating harbour, blending medieval roots with modern pedestrian charm.
Unmissable attractions to see
National Trust - Horton Court
3.7 km
Step back in time at Horton Court, a beautifully restored Tudor manor nestled in the scenic Cotswolds countryside with rich history and cinematic charm.
The Ancient Ram Inn (Advance Book only)
5.4 km
Step into England’s oldest haunted inn, where centuries of dark history and restless spirits create an unforgettable paranormal experience.
Wotton Hill
5.7 km
Explore Wotton Hill’s scenic Cotswold escarpment with ancient woodlands, historic landmarks, and sweeping views to Wales on clear days.
National Trust - Newark Park
6.1 km
A Tudor hunting lodge turned Georgian country house, perched on the Cotswold edge with sweeping views, historic interiors, and 700 acres of parkland and gardens.
Ozleworth Park
7.0 km
Discover the serene beauty and historic charm of Ozleworth Park, a tranquil Cotswold escape with lush gardens and a unique circular graveyard.
William Tyndale Monument
7.5 km
Explore the William Tyndale Monument, a historic tribute to the English Reformation, offering stunning views and a serene hiking experience.
Westonbirt, The National Arboretum
10.1 km
Explore 600 acres of global tree species, seasonal wonders, and tranquil paths at Westonbirt, the UK's premier National Arboretum.
Cam Peak
11.3 km
Discover Cam Peak’s breathtaking views, wildflower meadows, and ancient hillfort on a scenic Cotswold Way walk near Dursley.
National Trust - Dyrham Park
12.3 km
Explore Dyrham Park’s majestic 17th-century mansion, vast deer-filled parkland, and elegant gardens for a serene blend of history and nature.
Berkeley Castle
12.5 km
Explore Berkeley Castle, a Norman fortress lived in by the same family for over 850 years, steeped in royal history and medieval charm.
Dr Jenner's House
12.6 km
Step into the home of Edward Jenner, the pioneer of vaccination, and explore the historic site where smallpox was defeated.
Uley Long Barrow (Hetty Pegler's Tump)
12.7 km
Explore a 5,000-year-old Neolithic burial mound with ancient chambers and stunning Severn Valley views at Uley Long Barrow, Gloucestershire.
Highgrove Gardens
13.4 km
King Charles III's organic masterpiece: four decades of horticultural innovation in the Cotswolds.
Coaley Peak
14.0 km
Coaley Peak offers sweeping Cotswold views, ancient Neolithic heritage, and vibrant wildflower meadows on a tranquil hilltop reserve.
Nympsfield Long Barrow
14.1 km
Explore the ancient Neolithic burial chambers of Nympsfield Long Barrow, set amid stunning Gloucestershire countryside and steeped in mysterious legends.
Essential places to dine
Bybrook
14.4 km
Michelin-starred modern British fine dining in a historic Cotswold manor with fresh, seasonal produce from its own kitchen garden.
Grey's Brasserie
15.1 km
Sophisticated yet relaxed dining at Whatley Manor, featuring globally inspired small plates and traditional Sunday roasts in a stunning Cotswolds setting.
Wilder
15.4 km
Discover an intimate fine dining adventure in Nailsworth with inventive tasting menus and expertly paired wines at Wilder.
The Long Table
18.7 km
A pay-as-you-can community restaurant in Stroud serving locally sourced meals that nourish both body and spirit.
The Lock Up
19.4 km
A relaxed neighbourhood restaurant in East Bristol serving seasonal modern British food with warmth and style.
Bianchis
20.6 km
Neighbourhood Italian trattoria serving refined Northern Italian cuisine and handmade pasta in Montpelier, Bristol.
Caper and Cure
20.8 km
Savor expertly crafted British cuisine in a historic Stokes Croft setting, where heritage meets vibrant, flavourful dining.
The Canteen
20.9 km
A vibrant vegetarian restaurant and live music venue in Bristol, blending ethical dining with a lively community spirit.
Nadu
20.9 km
Bold Tamil and Sri Lankan flavours in Bristol’s cultural heart, with fiery curries, giant dosas and creative rum cocktails in a vibrant Stokes Croft setting.
Caribbean Croft
21.1 km
Experience authentic Caribbean flavors and vibrant culture in the heart of Bristol’s creative Stokes Croft neighborhood.
littlefrench
21.1 km
A cosy, authentic French bistro in Bristol’s Westbury Park, serving hearty classics and refined dishes with warm, friendly service.
Bulrush
21.3 km
A Michelin-starred tasting menu in a former greengrocer’s – inventive, intense, and unforgettable modern British cooking in Bristol’s Cotham.
Wilson's Restaurant
21.4 km
Michelin-starred farm-to-table dining in Bristol’s Redland, blending seasonal British flavors with sustainability in a cozy bistro setting.
Bathampton Mill Bath
21.4 km
Historic riverside gastropub blending traditional British charm with scenic views and modern dining near Bath.
Chris and Jo's Kitchen
21.7 km
A Bristol gem serving hearty, seasonal British food in a warm, unpretentious setting where every meal feels like a home-cooked feast.
Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
Domestic Science
15.2 km
Discover curated vintage treasures and contemporary homewares in a charming Georgian townhouse at the heart of Tetbury.
Highgrove Shop - Tetbury
15.3 km
Exclusive royal estate boutique offering sustainable crafts, fine china, and artisan gifts inspired by King Charles III’s Highgrove Gardens.
The Little Gift Shop
15.7 km
Curated gifts and local treasures in the heart of Nailsworth's independent retail scene.
Luxury Smell
15.9 km
Bristol's premier niche fragrance boutique offering expert consultations and exclusive luxury scents.
Esse's Dream Gift Shop
17.1 km
A charming independent gift shop in Bristol, full of carefully chosen cards, homewares, and local treasures for every occasion.
All Good Things Outlet Bristol
17.3 km
Discover affordable luxury and timeless fashion at All Good Things Outlet Bristol, where premium clothing gets a stylish second chance.
BAM Store + Space
19.2 km
Discover unique gifts and local artistry at BAM Store + Space, Easton’s vibrant hub for creativity and community.
Born in Bristol
19.6 km
Discover unique local gifts and authentic Bristol charm at Born in Bristol, Redfield’s beloved independent gift shop.
Duffle Vintage
20.0 km
Authentic 60s and 70s vintage fashion in intimate, inspiring room settings.
Butterfly Ball
20.1 km
Discover mindful gifts and spiritual treasures in Stroud’s welcoming Butterfly Ball shop, a hub for creativity and community since 2011.
Moonflower Too
20.1 km
A vibrant gift shop in Stroud’s historic High Street, blending unique homewares with local charm and ethical brands.
iota bristol
20.2 km
Discover premium hi-fi audio and unique gifts at iota bristol, a boutique gem in Bristol’s vibrant Bishopston neighborhood.
USTUDIO Shop
20.2 km
A Bristol concept store blending Scandinavian and Japanese design in stationery, lifestyle goods, homewares, and self-care essentials.
MAKE - Independent Clothing Store - Gloucester Road Bristol
20.4 km
Discover unique, sustainable fashion and local artistry at MAKE, Bristol’s independent boutique on vibrant Gloucester Road.
Unique Word Collection
20.6 km
Discover unique and thoughtful gifts at Bristol’s welcoming Unique Word Collection, where originality meets charm in every item.
Essential bars & hidden hideouts
The Full Glass Bar
14.3 km
Historic charm meets modern luxury at The Full Glass Bar, a refined cocktail and wine haven in Castle Combe’s iconic Manor House.
The Weighbridge Inn
16.1 km
Historic 17th-century Cotswolds pub famed for its unique 2in1 pies, local ales, and warm, rustic charm.
Melt Bars - Mobile Event & Cocktail Bars
18.4 km
Bespoke handcrafted mobile bars and expert cocktail service tailored for events across the UK from Chippenham’s premier specialists.
The Smoking Dog
18.8 km
A welcoming traditional pub in Malmesbury serving hearty classics and fine ales in a cozy, dog-friendly setting.
The Bootlegger
20.6 km
Step into Bristol’s Bootlegger for vintage cocktails, a cozy speakeasy vibe, and expertly crafted drinks inspired by the Prohibition era.
The Quarrymans Arms, Box Hill
20.7 km
Charming countryside pub and boutique inn on Box Hill with stunning views, hearty local fare, and cozy rooms near Corsham and Bath.
The Pipe & Slippers
20.8 km
A charming Bristol pub blending vintage style, excellent food, and lively local culture on Cheltenham Road.
To The Moon
20.9 km
A bohemian bar in Bristol’s Old Market, blending creative cocktails, live music, and artsy vibes for unforgettable nights.
Cotswold Mobile Bar Hire
21.1 km
Bringing bespoke, fully stocked mobile bars with rustic charm and quirky inflatable pubs to your Cotswold events.
The Old Crown Inn
21.3 km
A charming traditional British pub near Bath offering hearty fare, real ales, and a warm, welcoming atmosphere in historic Kelston.
The Rummer
21.7 km
A cozy, spirit-focused pub in the medieval heart of Bristol—fireside rooms, hundreds of gins and a distilled approach to cocktails.
The Library Bristol
21.7 km
Bristol's enchanting chameleon: vintage tea parlour by day, exclusive cocktail lounge by night—where elegance meets mixology in a hidden urban gem.
The Gold Bar
21.8 km
Experience Bristol’s ultimate speakeasy-style cocktail bar with opulent décor, masterful mixology, and vibrant weekend entertainment.
Blame Gloria - Bristol
21.8 km
Dive into Bristol’s wildest retro cocktail bar with themed brunches, dazzling performances, and a party atmosphere like no other.
The Mothers' Ruin
21.8 km
Bristol's dive bar legend: cheap pints, basement beats, live tunes, and pizza in a historic street nook – pure debauchery awaits.
Nightclubs & after hour spots
Capones
10.2 km
Historic nightclub in Dursley with legendary ties to Al Capone, offering vibrant weekend nightlife and pulsating music.
Trio Nightclub
20.0 km
Experience Stroud’s vibrant nightlife at Trio Nightclub, where music, dancing, and energetic vibes light up weekend nights.
Dare to Club
20.9 km
Experience Bristol’s vibrant, inclusive nightlife at Dare to Club, where diverse music and welcoming vibes create unforgettable nights.
Lakota
21.0 km
Bristol's gritty heartbeat: underground raves, thunderous bass, and nights that blur into dawn at this St Paul's legend.
Motion
21.3 km
Bristol’s iconic warehouse nightclub, Motion, pulses with underground beats and community spirit, celebrating decades of electronic music culture.
The Loco Klub
21.7 km
An atmospheric subterranean arts venue in Brunel’s Temple Meads arches, where tunnels, brick vaults and intimate soundscapes host club nights, theatre and live music.
Popworld - Bristol
22.0 km
Dance to 90s and 00s pop anthems under neon lights at Bristol's ultimate nostalgic nightclub, where cheesy hits and POPTAIL cocktails fuel epic nights out.
Forró Bristol
22.0 km
Ignite your night with Brazilian forró rhythms: partner dances, live bands, and sweaty joy in Bristol's beating heart.
The Lion - Bar & Nightclub
22.0 km
A vibrant bar and nightclub blending historic charm with lively nightlife in the heart of Chepstow.
Queenshilling - Bristol Bar and Nightclub
22.2 km
Bristol's iconic LGBTQ+ haven: dance, drag, and drinks in an intimate Frogmore Street gem fueling the city's electric nightlife.
Basement 45
22.2 km
Experience Bristol’s underground nightlife at Basement 45, where eclectic music, intimate vibes, and vibrant events come alive until the early hours.
Silk Nightclub
22.2 km
Experience Bristol’s vibrant nightlife at Silk Nightclub, where energetic beats and a lively crowd create unforgettable nights in the city center.
Marquee Cocktail Bar & Nightclub
22.2 km
From refined cocktails to dawn-dancing beats, Marquee delivers Bristol's ultimate nightlife evolution in one stylish venue.
Antix
22.2 km
Bristol's enduring late-night haven on Park Street: cocktails till 1am, DJ beats till 6am, dancing into dawn with house, R&B, and reggaeton vibes.
Thekla
22.2 km
A converted cargo ship transformed into Bristol’s compact, industrial live-music venue and late-night club, famed for close-up shows and throbbing club nights.
For the vibe & atmosphere seeker
- Relaxing
- Tranquil
- Scenic
- Unique
- Casual
For the design and aesthetic lover
- Rustic Designs
- Bohemian Styles
For the architecture buff
- Historic
- Parks & Gardens
- Heritage Neighborhoods
For the view chaser and sunset hunter
- Iconic Views
- Panoramas
- Sunrise Spots
- Sunset Spots
For the social media creator & influencer
- Instagrammable
- Photo Spots
- Selfie Spots
- Aesthetic Corners
For the eco-conscious traveler
- Sustainable
- Eco-Friendly
- Low Impact
- Locally Managed
- Public-Transport Accessible
- Wildlife Habitat
For the kind of experience you’re after
- Cultural Heritage
- Nature Escape
- Day Trip
- Weekend Getaway
- Photowalk
- Myth & Legends
For how adventurous you want the journey to be
- Easy Access
Location Audience
- Family Friendly
- LGBT Friendly
- Senior Friendly
- Child Friendly
- Teen Friendly
- Wheelchair Access
- Pet Friendly
- Solo Friendly
- Couple Friendly
- Solo Female Friendly
- Vegetarian Friendly
- Vegan Friendly