I can't think of a nicer way to spend the early morning of a sunny Easter Bank Holiday Monday than a walk in Harridge Woods, Oakhill with friends. Belinda, Jenny and I hadn't met up in ages so there was a lot to talk about! We went to see the wild garlic, but at the entrance of the woods all we could see were bluebells and evidence, in the form of logs, of a continual maintenance programme. This work is carried out by the Somerset Wildlife Trust who own the woods.
However, as we walked deeper into the woods, there were carpets of wild garlic. It was mostly in leaf and bud but we did see some of pretty white star-like flowers. We reckon another week or so before it is all in full flower. We could certainly smell the garlic...
One of the exciting things on this particular walk, is the way the woods are reclaiming the ruins of Ashwick Grove House (see above). Only hints of the former grand house and outbuildings remain...
Another ruin on the walk is Keepers Cottage (see top left), which has been preserved from further collapse, as a habitat for bats. Overall, the building supports at least seven species of bat throughout the year. These woods are a great place for fungi, wildflowers, lichen, ferns, moss, as well as birds and wild animals. We didn't see any deer this time but we did hear plenty of birdsong and an active woodpecker!
No comments:
Post a Comment