Hocombe Mead Local Nature Reserve

There are over 8 hectares of woodland and meadow in this wildlife reserve which lays to the south of Hocombe Road in Chandlers Ford, Hampshire. Owned and managed by Eastleigh Borough Council it became the councils first Local Nature Reserve in 2008.

There are about 30 species of butterfly including Orange Tip, Meadow Browns, Ringlets and the common Blues. The ancient woodlands and meadows are shown on old maps of the area dating back over 400 years, as far back as 1588, being known as Eagle's Copse which was part of Hursley Parish.

A number of paths and broadwalks have been created, some have steep inclines, there is a viewing platform near to the entrance from Ashdown Road which is ideally suited for those with mobility issues or for those with young children. Other entrances to Hocombe Mead are in Hiltingbury Road or Hocombe Road.

The woodland consists of tree species such as Birch, Oak, Sweet Chestnut, Ash and Hazel. There are small areas offen and the remnants of a heathland with a stream running through the reserve. You will also find rush pasture which has Meadowsweet, Purpleloosestrife, Common Sorrel and Cuckooflowers.

It is now maintained by Eastleigh Borough Council and The Friends of Hocombe Mead. It was started by  The Grasslands Trust which was set up in 2002 to restore wildlife grasslands in the United Kingdom.

It is important that these areas are preserved as they provide natures way of dealing with excess water and also help to soak up carbon. If you would like to know more about other Nature Reserves details can be found on the Grasslands Trust's website and also at the Hocombe Mead website.

www.chandlersford.org.uk