Ruislip Woods National Nature Reserve
About Ruislip Woods National Nature Reserve
Ruislip Woods is a Ancient semi-natural woodland reserve in Greater London, managed by London Borough of Hillingdon. The reserve covers approximately 300 hectares and is designated as a National Nature Reserve. The reserve supports oak, hornbeam and birch woodland with ancient coppice stools. The ground flora includes bluebells, wood anemones and yellow archangel. Birds include great spotted woodpecker, nuthatch, treecreeper and tawny owl. Purple hairstreak butterflies feed in the oak canopy. The woodland supports a rich fungal community in autumn.
Wildlife & Habitat at Ruislip Woods National Nature Reserve
The reserve supports oak, hornbeam and birch woodland with ancient coppice stools. The ground flora includes bluebells, wood anemones and yellow archangel. Birds include great spotted woodpecker, nuthatch, treecreeper and tawny owl. Purple hairstreak butterflies feed in the oak canopy. The woodland supports a rich fungal community in autumn.
Location & Nearest Towns
Ruislip Woods National Nature Reserve is located in Greater London, England. The nearest town is Ruislip. Nearby places include Ruislip, Uxbridge, Pinner.
Interesting Facts
- Ruislip Woods is the largest block of ancient woodland in Greater London, a remarkable survival of the medieval Forest of Ruislip.
- Hornbeam, once coppiced to make charcoal and tool handles, is a characteristic tree of the reserve and a specialty of the London clay.
- Purple hairstreak butterflies, which live high in the oak canopy and are rarely seen, breed here in one of their few London sites.
Visitor Tips for Ruislip Woods 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 parks at several access points including Park Wood and Bayhurst Wood. Waymarked trails. No visitor centre on site but toilets and cafes available in Ruislip. Easy access by London Underground (Ruislip Lido station nearby).
Car parks at several access points including Park Wood and Bayhurst Wood. Waymarked trails. No visitor centre on site but toilets and cafes available in Ruislip. Easy access by London Underground (Ruislip Lido station nearby).
Exploring Ruislip Woods National Nature Reserve
Ruislip Woods National Nature Reserve is a easy-access reserve in Greater London. The habitat is primarily Ancient semi-natural woodland, and the reserve is managed by London Borough of Hillingdon. 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 Ruislip Woods National Nature Reserve suitable for families?
Yes, the woods have well-maintained paths and are very suitable for families. Flat to gently undulating terrain with well-maintained, mostly level paths. Good access from car parks and public transport. Some sections can be muddy after rain. Suitable for families and casual walkers.
What is the best time to visit Ruislip Woods NNR?
Spring to autumn offers the best wildlife viewing opportunities. April and May for spectacular bluebell displays. Spring for birdsong and woodland butterflies. Summer for purple hairstreak butterflies. Autumn for fungi and autumn leaf colour. Winter for flocks of tits and finches.
Are dogs allowed at Ruislip Woods National Nature Reserve?
Dogs are welcome in the woods under close control. Keep on a lead near wildlife and during the bird breeding season.
Why Visit Ruislip Woods National Nature Reserve?
Ruislip Woods National Nature Reserve is a designated National Nature Reserve in Greater London, 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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