Alkham, Lydden and Swingfield Woods facts for kids
| Site of Special Scientific Interest | |
 |
|
| Area of Search | Kent |
|---|---|
| Interest | Biological |
| Area | 228.3 hectares (564 acres) |
| Notification | 1986 |
| Location map | Magic Map |
Alkham, Lydden and Swingfield Woods is a special natural area in Kent, England. It covers about 228.3 hectares, which is like 564 football fields! This site is located north-west of Dover. It's officially known as a biological Site of Special Scientific Interest (SSSI) because of its amazing plants and habitats.
Alkham Valley Woods, part of this area, is also a Grade I site in the Nature Conservation Review. This means it's one of the most important places in the UK for nature.
Contents
What Makes This Place Special?
Alkham, Lydden and Swingfield Woods is made up of several woodlands. These woods are on steep hillsides. The soil here is chalky, which is a special type of ground. There are also open areas of chalk grassland.
Amazing Plants
The plants growing here are very diverse. This means you can find many different kinds of plants. Some of them are quite rare and unusual.
Rare Orchids
Two very special flowers found here are the lady orchid and the burnt orchid.
- The lady orchid grows in the woods. It's known for its beautiful, helmet-shaped flowers.
- The burnt orchid is found in the meadows. It has a unique look, with dark purple tips that look like they've been "burnt."
These orchids need specific conditions to grow, which is why they are so rare. Protecting places like this helps these beautiful flowers survive.
Why is it Protected?
This area is protected as an SSSI to keep its special wildlife safe. An SSSI is a place the government has chosen as important for its plants, animals, or geology. It helps make sure these natural treasures are looked after for the future.
Visiting Alkham, Lydden and Swingfield Woods
You can explore some parts of this natural area.
- There are public footpaths that go through some of the woods. These paths are great for walking and enjoying nature.
- However, some areas are private land. This means you cannot enter them without permission. Always stick to the marked public paths.
