home

Little Phrympth Copse

near Dundridge, near Bishops Waltham
Grid Ref SU577180
Client: Private

This is part of the Rareridge Hangers near Bishops Waltham. Although it was ancient woodland parts were planted up with conifers of more recent times. At the western end of the woods is Little Phrympth Copse, which was planted with Hybrid Larch or Dunkeld Larch, then clear felled in 2015. Unlike most conifers the larch loses its leaves in winter and allows enough light to reach the ground to germinate existing seeds of Oak, Hazel, Ash and Field Maple. However although most of the larch timber was removed, smaller material (the "lop and top") was left behind, and this needs to be cleared by hand so that native seedlings can grow unimpeded.

photo photo photo On our first task here we were helped by scouts from 1st Bishop's Waltham Scout Group. Thanks to Martin Robinson for the pictures, there are more here.

In August we return to help clear the remaining dead larch vegetation. Bonfires are very likely.

Directions

Meet at 10am inside the double-gated entrance off Damson Hill. From Bishops Waltham, go along Dundridge Lane for just over one mile, turn right (with the Hampshire Bowman pub just off to the left) past Galleydown Farm and the entrance is 300 yards on the left. Look out for the yellow HCV flags.

Get Ordnance Survey map in new window

Home | Future Events | List of Sites