Introducing Bicknor Wood

Bicknor Wood, situated near the village of Otham, Maidstone, is a cherished 8.5 acre ancient woodland nature reserve. Ancient woodland describes land that has not been disturbed or ploughed for over 400 years and areas like this are rare, covering just 2% of land in the UK. It includes many mature trees, some around 150 years old and contains an abundance of wildlife and wildflowers. This relaxing peaceful haven, now surrounded by 4 different housing developments, was purchased in 2020 by residents of the local community to protect it forever.

The woods feature 18 (and counting) species of native trees and many types of wildflowers, particularly wood anemone, primrose and bluebells, thousands of which transform the woodland each spring. 

42 (also still counting) species of birds have been recorded in and flying over the wood. Most frequently seen are Blue Tit, Blackbird, Woodpigeon and European Robin. 

Occasionally a Tawny Owl, may be heard, but is seldom seen. At least 4 species of bats are known to occur and join rabbits, grey squirrels, fox and badger on the mammals list.

The insect list will need a bigger blog.

Speckled wood

The wooded area was much bigger in the past and formed part of the nearby Gore Court estate. Maps made in 1797 show them named 'Belt Wood' and covering a larger area of 39 acres, including all the land where the Imperial Park housing estate now stands. All that remains today is Bicknor Wood and Bicknor Hole, the small area of woods opposite the petrol garage on Sutton Road nearby.