Bredon Hill National Nature Reserve
About Bredon Hill National Nature Reserve
Bredon Hill is a Limestone grassland and woodland reserve in Worcestershire, managed by Natural England. The reserve covers approximately 75 hectares and is designated as a National Nature Reserve. The limestone grassland supports wildflowers including rockrose, wild thyme and several orchid species. The woodland features ash and wych elm with a rich ground flora. The reserve is a stronghold for dingy skipper and grizzled skipper butterflies. Ravens nest on the hill. Skylarks and meadow pipits breed in the open areas.
Wildlife & Habitat at Bredon Hill National Nature Reserve
The limestone grassland supports wildflowers including rockrose, wild thyme and several orchid species. The woodland features ash and wych elm with a rich ground flora. The reserve is a stronghold for dingy skipper and grizzled skipper butterflies. Ravens nest on the hill. Skylarks and meadow pipits breed in the open areas.
Location & Nearest Towns
Bredon Hill National Nature Reserve is located in Worcestershire, England. The nearest town is Evesham. Nearby places include Evesham, Pershore, Tewkesbury.
Interesting Facts
- Bredon Hill is topped by an Iron Age hillfort, making it one of the oldest inhabited sites in Worcestershire.
- The hill inspired A.E. Housman's poem 'Bredon Hill', one of the most famous poems about the English landscape.
- The reserve is a stronghold for the dingy skipper butterfly, a species that has declined dramatically across central England.
Visitor Tips for Bredon Hill 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 the foot of the hill near Kemerton. Public footpaths to the summit. No visitor centre, toilets or cafe on the reserve. Nearest facilities in Bredon or Overbury.
Car park at the foot of the hill near Kemerton. Public footpaths to the summit. No visitor centre, toilets or cafe on the reserve. Nearest facilities in Bredon or Overbury.
Exploring Bredon Hill National Nature Reserve
Bredon Hill National Nature Reserve is a easy-access reserve in Worcestershire. The habitat is primarily Limestone grassland and woodland, and the reserve is managed by Natural England. 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 Bredon Hill National Nature Reserve suitable for families?
Yes, there are hill paths and tracks suitable for families. Steep climb to the summit. Limestone paths that can be slippery when wet. Some stepped sections. Access via footpaths from surrounding villages. Sturdy footwear recommended.
What is the best time to visit Bredon Hill NNR?
Spring to autumn offers the best wildflower displays. May to August for wildflowers and butterflies. Spring for birdsong. Summer for skylarks. Autumn for fungi and leaf colour. Winter offers clear views from the summit.
Are dogs allowed at Bredon Hill National Nature Reserve?
Dogs are permitted on public paths under close control. Keep on a lead to protect ground-nesting birds and grazing livestock.
Why Visit Bredon Hill National Nature Reserve?
Bredon Hill National Nature Reserve is a designated National Nature Reserve in Worcestershire, England — one of the UK's finest protected wildlife sites. Browse our full directory of UK nature reserves to discover more sites to visit.
Nearby Nature Reserves to Explore
Looking beyond Bredon Hill National Nature Reserve? These reserves are worth exploring.