Bardney Limewoods National Nature Reserve
About Bardney Limewoods National Nature Reserve
Bardney Limewoods is a Ancient limewood and floodplain meadow reserve in Lincolnshire, managed by Natural England and Lincolnshire Wildlife Trust. The reserve covers approximately 265 hectares and is designated as a National Nature Reserve. The reserve is nationally important for its small-leaved lime, a tree rare in Britain but abundant here. The woods support rich ground flora including lily-of-the-valley, herb paris and early purple orchid. Dormice have been reintroduced to the reserve. White-letter hairstreak butterflies feed on the elm trees. Hawfinches are regularly seen in winter.
Wildlife & Habitat at Bardney Limewoods National Nature Reserve
The reserve is nationally important for its small-leaved lime, a tree rare in Britain but abundant here. The woods support rich ground flora including lily-of-the-valley, herb paris and early purple orchid. Dormice have been reintroduced to the reserve. White-letter hairstreak butterflies feed on the elm trees. Hawfinches are regularly seen in winter.
Location & Nearest Towns
Bardney Limewoods National Nature Reserve is located in Lincolnshire, England. The nearest town is Lincoln. Nearby places include Lincoln, Bardney, Woodhall Spa.
Interesting Facts
- Bardney Limewoods contains the finest surviving ancient small-leaved lime woodland in Britain, a habitat that was once common in medieval England.
- Dormice have been successfully reintroduced to the reserve after being locally extinct for over a century.
- White-letter hairstreak butterflies, which depend on elm trees, maintain one of their strongest populations here despite Dutch elm disease.
Visitor Tips for Bardney Limewoods National Nature Reserve
Spring to Autumn offers the best conditions for wildlife viewing.
Binoculars, walking boots or wellies, waterproofs, and a field guide. Insect repellent in summer.
Car park at Chamber's Farm Wood. Waymarked trails and interpretation panels. Toilets available at the car park. Nearest cafes and pubs in Bardney and Wragby.
Car park at Chamber's Farm Wood. Waymarked trails and interpretation panels. Toilets available at the car park. Nearest cafes and pubs in Bardney and Wragby.
Exploring Bardney Limewoods National Nature Reserve
Bardney Limewoods National Nature Reserve is a easy-access reserve in Lincolnshire. The habitat is primarily Ancient limewood and floodplain meadow, and the reserve is managed by Natural England and Lincolnshire Wildlife Trust. Whether you're a seasoned naturalist or a first-time visitor, the reserve offers a peaceful escape into some of the UK's finest protected landscape.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is Bardney Limewoods National Nature Reserve suitable for families?
Yes, the woods have level paths and trails suitable for families. Flat terrain with well-maintained, mostly level paths. Some sections can be muddy after rain. Good access from the car park. Boardwalks at wetter points.
What is the best time to visit Bardney Limewoods NNR?
Spring to autumn offers the best wildlife viewing opportunities. April and May for bluebells and spring wildflowers. June for lime trees in flower. Summer for butterflies and dormice activity. Autumn for fungi and autumn leaf colour. Winter for flocks of hawfinches.
Are dogs allowed at Bardney Limewoods National Nature Reserve?
Dogs are permitted on waymarked paths under close control. Keep on a lead to protect ground flora and nesting birds.
Why Visit Bardney Limewoods National Nature Reserve?
Bardney Limewoods National Nature Reserve is a designated National Nature Reserve in Lincolnshire, England — one of the UK's finest protected wildlife sites. Browse our full directory of UK nature reserves to discover more sites to visit.
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