Grid reference TL 573414
TL 572404 Location map Magic Map Area of search Essex | Interest Biological Area 15 ha Notification 1986 | |
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Similar Weeleyhall Wood, Chalkney Wood, Iron Latch, Cockaynes Wood, Pound Wood | ||
Hales and Shadwell Woods is a 15.4 hectare biological Site of Special Scientific Interest north-east of Saffron Walden in Essex. Shadwell Wood has an area of 7.1 hectares and it is managed by the Essex Wildlife Trust. Hales Wood is a National Nature Reserve, and it is listed in the Nature Conservation Review.
The woods, which are under half a mile apart, are both ancient coppice wet ash and maple on chalky boulder clay. The shrub layer is diverse, with plants including wayfaring-trees, guelder roses, spurge-laurel and the nationally uncommon oxlip. Seven species of orchid have been recorded in Shadwell Wood, which also has herb-rich grassy rides.
There is access to Shadwell Wood by a footpath from Walden Road, but no access to Hales Wood.
References
Hales and Shadwell Woods Wikipedia(Text) CC BY-SA