Bacombe and Coombe Hills facts for kids
| Site of Special Scientific Interest | |
Ridgeway on Bacombe Hill
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| Area of Search | Buckinghamshire |
|---|---|
| Interest | Biological |
| Area | 76.4 hectares |
| Notification | 1999 |
| Location map | Magic Map |
Bacombe and Coombe Hills is a special natural area in Buckinghamshire, England. It covers about 76.4 hectares, which is like 100 football fields! This site is officially known as a Site of Special Scientific Interest (SSSI). This means it's super important for its plants, animals, or geology.
Part of this area, Bacombe Hill, used to be owned by the local government. In 2014, it was given to the Berkshire, Buckinghamshire and Oxfordshire Wildlife Trust. This trust helps protect wildlife. The other part, Coombe Hill, is looked after by the National Trust. They work to preserve historic places and natural beauty.
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Exploring Bacombe and Coombe Hills
This amazing place is part of the Chilterns Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty. This title means the landscape is so beautiful and unique, it's protected. Bacombe Hill is also a Local Nature Reserve. This means it's a great spot for people to enjoy nature and learn about it.
Famous Walking Trails
A famous walking path called the Ridgeway National Trail goes right through Bacombe and Coombe Hills. This trail is one of the oldest roads in Britain. It's perfect for hiking and exploring the beautiful countryside.
What Makes This Place Special?
Bacombe and Coombe Hills is mostly made of chalk grassland. This type of land is very special because it has many different kinds of plants and animals. It's like a natural treasure chest!
Unique Plants and Flowers
You can find a huge variety of plants here. One of the most amazing is the fringed gentian. This flower is so rare that almost all of them in Britain grow right here! There are also areas with juniper bushes and other mixed plants. Bacombe Hill is especially known for its beautiful orchids.
Amazing Insects and Butterflies
This area is also home to many interesting insects. You might spot some rare butterflies flying around. These include the chalkhill blue and the brown argus butterflies. They add bright splashes of color to the landscape.
How to Visit
If you want to explore Bacombe and Coombe Hills, you can find access from Ellesbrough Road. It's a wonderful place to connect with nature and see some of Britain's rarest wildlife.
