Arrandene Open Space and Featherstone Hill facts for kids
Arrandene Open Space and Featherstone Hill is a special natural area in Mill Hill, London. It's a huge 25-hectare site, which means it's about the size of 50 football fields! This area is so important for nature that it's called a "Site of Metropolitan Importance for Nature Conservation." It's a fantastic place to explore and see wildlife.
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Exploring Arrandene Open Space and Featherstone Hill
What is Arrandene Open Space?
Arrandene Open Space is a big area of grassy fields. These fields are separated by old hedges, which have been there for a very long time. It's one of the few places in London that still has traditional hay meadows. These meadows are managed in an old-fashioned way, which helps many different plants and animals to thrive.
Amazing Plants and Animals
Because of how it's managed, Arrandene Open Space is home to many plants you don't often see. These include plants like greater bird's-foot trefoil, common knapweed, and ox-eye daisy.
You can also find interesting trees here, such as the wild service tree. This tree is quite rare! Many different birds also live and raise their young here. Look out for birds like the spotted flycatcher, lesser whitethroat, reed bunting, and the singing skylark.
Featherstone Hill
Featherstone Hill is part of this special site. It's a hill located in the south-west area. This part of the site has some lovely wooded areas, making it a great spot for different kinds of plants and animals.
How This Special Place Was Saved
Back in 1929, the area around Mill Hill was growing very quickly. Many new buildings were being built. To make sure this beautiful natural space was protected for everyone to enjoy, the local council, which was called Hendon Council at the time, bought the land. This decision helped to keep Arrandene Open Space and Featherstone Hill as a green area for public fun and nature.
Visiting Arrandene Open Space
You can visit Arrandene Open Space and Featherstone Hill for free! There are many paths you can walk along. Some paths are also suitable for horse riding. You can find entrances to the site at Wise Lane, Milespit Hill, and Wills Grove. It's a wonderful place to go for a walk, enjoy nature, and see some amazing wildlife.
