Introduction
The Wildgrounds represents one of the few remaining unspoilt woodland pastures in South East Hampshire. It was acquired by the Borough of Gosport in 1966 and an area of about 67 acres was designated as local Nature Reserve in 1978. In 1984, in recognition of its unique character, it was made a site of special scientific interest (SSSI).
The larger part of the Wildgrounds is covered by woodland most noted for its ancient Oaks, some of which are estimated to be over 400 years old. Mature woodland of this type benefits hole-nesting birds in abundance. Woodpeckers are particularly common, with all three British species represented.
The tracks and signs of Roe Deer, Squirrels and Foxes and the animals themselves are sometimes spotted by quiet visitors.
There are two marked trails "red" and "green". Both trails start at Middle Barn. The Barn and the adjacent gamekeeper's cottage were built during the early nineteenth Century. The barn contains a display depicting the history and wildlife of the Wildgrounds.
The Butterfly Field
This area of grassland has developed naturally over a former rubbish tip and now supports a wide variety of meadow plants. Summer Butterflies are abundant, those most commonly seen are Gatekeeper, Meadow Brown, Common Blue and Large and Small Skippers, but many different species have been recorded.
Woodland Pond & Tom's Ditch
The larger woodland pond was reconstructed in 1980-81. Fed by Tom's Ditch, it holds a small population of Rudd and is frequented by water loving insects, particularly Dragonflies and Damselflies. Kingfishers and Herons are occasional visitors and a small colony of Stock Doves nest in hollow trees around the pond.
The Red Trail
This branches off over the footbridge by the woodland ponds and passes through Holly and Rhododendron scrub to enter the largest area of woodland. This route takes you through a mature wood of Oak, Birch and Bracken into the heart of the Wildgrounds. The trail descends to the river flood-plain and a boardwalk crosses through an area of wet alderwood to the River Alver. From the Riverbank Viewpoint you can look across open Fen to the Lee-on-the-Solent Golf Course.
The Riverside Fen has a rich flora which includes Meadowsweet, Purple Loosestrife and GuelderRose. Whitethroats, Sedge Warblers and Reed Buntings are common here among a wide variety of marsh and water birds.
The return route through the wood takes you past a group of Ancient Oaks before completing its circuit back to the woodland ponds.
The Green Trail
For the most part it follows close to the woodland edge. The green trail is notable for Spring and Summer flowers and Spring bird song with Blackbird, Blackcap, Willow Warblers and ChiffChaffs adding to the chorus.
In late Spring the Rhododendron Dell is at its best with bright blooms contrasting with the backcloth of Bluebells. This dell was formed during age-old gravel workings.
After the Dell the path skirts a plantation of old Larch trees and younger Scots Pine. This area attracts birds such as the Goldcrest, Coal Tit and Sparrowhawk.
The path leaves the Pines, turns sharp right and loops around to follow the boundary of the Butterfly field, re- enters the wood and after passing a small boggy pond it continues through open Oak/Birch woodland to the Observation Hide before rejoining the outward route at the Rhododendron Dell.
The Reserve is open from Wednesday through to Sunday, from March to October, 10.00am to 4.00pm.
Permits:
Permits are available from the Tourist Information Centre or the Town Hall Cashiers. They are valid for four weeks from date of issue.
Day permits are also available from the warden on duty and can be purchased on the day of your visit.
Monthly permits - £4.00 (concessions £2.60)
Day permits - £1.40 (concessions £1.10)
There are a number of organised guided walks throughout the year (see events leaflet below) and walks or events can be arranged for specific groups on request.
Contact the Countryside Section on 023 9258 8666 or email countryside@gosport.gov.uk
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