Little Linford Wood Nature Reserve
Little Linford Wood Nature Reserve
Highlight • Forest
Hiking
5.0
(7)
Running
5.0
(1)
Little Linford Wood Nature Reserve is a significant 43-hectare ancient woodland located in Buckinghamshire, approximately 4.5 miles north of Milton Keynes. This cherished forest, managed by the Berkshire, Buckinghamshire and Oxfordshire Wildlife Trust (BBOWT), stands at an elevation of around 100 meters, offering a vital green space amidst the surrounding arable fields. It is a prime example of a regenerating mixed deciduous woodland, showcasing the rich natural heritage of the region.
Visitors consistently praise Little Linford Wood for its unique…
Tips
March 2, 2021
Hiking
August 22, 2023
Running
Routes here
Best routes to Little Linford Wood Nature Reserve
3.5
(4)
14
hikers
12.1km
03:09
80m
80m
Moderate hike. Good fitness required. Mostly accessible paths. Sure-footedness required.
4.8
(6)
14
hikers
15.3km
03:58
90m
90m
5.0
(2)
7
hikers
16.8km
04:21
100m
100m
Details
Informations
Elevation 100 m
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Monday 2 March
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Yes, Little Linford Wood is considered family-friendly. The trails are generally flat, making them accessible for children. The 0.75-mile wildlife trail is a great option for a shorter, engaging walk. Remember that some areas can get muddy, so appropriate footwear for everyone is recommended.
Yes, dogs are welcome at Little Linford Wood Nature Reserve. However, to protect the delicate wildlife and ensure a pleasant experience for all visitors, dogs must be kept on leads at all times.
The former car park for Little Linford Wood is now closed. Access to the reserve is primarily via public footpaths from nearby villages such as Little Linford and Haversham. Visitors should plan to park responsibly in these villages or consider public transport options.
Little Linford Wood is a haven for wildlife. You might spot various birds like great spotted woodpeckers, tawny owls, and buzzards. The reserve is also home to mammals such as badgers, stoats, and a thriving population of hazel dormice. In spring and summer, the sunny rides attract numerous butterflies, including white admirals and purple hairstreaks.
Yes, the reserve offers several trails that can be combined to create circular walks of varying lengths. The 0.75-mile wildlife trail is a popular option, and you can extend your walk by exploring the wider network of public footpaths within and around the ancient woodland.
For a spectacular display of wildflowers, the best time to visit is during spring. This is when the woodland floor is carpeted with bluebells, primroses, wood sorrel, and wood anemones. Early summer also offers vibrant flora along the rides.
The trails at Little Linford Wood are generally considered easy. The terrain is mostly flat, making it suitable for casual walkers and families. However, some areas can become muddy, especially after rain, so appropriate footwear is advisable.
Little Linford Wood Nature Reserve is located in a rural setting. While there are no amenities directly within the reserve, you can find cafes, pubs, and accommodation options in the nearby villages of Little Linford and Haversham, or in the larger town of Milton Keynes, which is approximately 4.5 miles away.
Yes, Little Linford Wood is accessible year-round and offers a different kind of beauty in winter. While the vibrant flora may be dormant, the ancient trees and quiet atmosphere provide a peaceful experience. Be prepared for potentially muddy conditions and colder temperatures.
Little Linford Wood is an ancient woodland, meaning it has been continuously wooded for centuries, with its first appearance on a map dating back to 1788. Historically managed as 'coppice with standards,' it was acquired by BBOWT in the early 1980s and has since undergone significant regeneration efforts to restore its rich biodiversity.
While there aren't elevated viewpoints in the traditional sense due to the flat terrain, the reserve itself is a notable feature. The attractive flowery rides are particularly cherished, especially in spring and summer, offering beautiful vistas of the woodland's diverse flora and attracting numerous butterflies. The ancient trees and the sense of timelessness are also key features.