Bradfield Woods facts for kids
| Site of Special Scientific Interest | |
 |
|
| Area of Search | Suffolk |
|---|---|
| Interest | Biological |
| Area | 81.4 hectares |
| Notification | 1986 |
| Location map | Magic Map |
Bradfield Woods is a super important natural area in Suffolk, England. It's located between the towns of Bury St Edmunds and Stowmarket. This amazing place covers about 81.4 hectares, which is like 200 football fields!
It's so special that it's been given two important titles: a Site of Special Scientific Interest (SSSI) and a National Nature Reserve. This means it's protected because of its unique wildlife and plants. The Suffolk Wildlife Trust helps look after a big part of these woods.
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Discover Bradfield Woods
Bradfield Woods isn't just one big forest. It's actually made up of three separate parts. The main areas are Felsham Hall and Monkspark Woods. There's also a smaller section called Hedge Wood and Chensil Grove. These different parts all contribute to the woods' amazing natural beauty.
A Living History of Trees
One of the coolest things about Bradfield Woods is its long history. People have been managing these woods for a very, very long time. They've used a special technique called coppicing since before the year 1252!
What is Coppicing?
Coppicing is a traditional way of managing trees. It involves cutting down young tree stems close to the ground. This doesn't kill the tree. Instead, it encourages new shoots to grow from the stump. These new shoots can then be harvested again after a few years. This method helps keep the woodland healthy and creates different habitats for wildlife.
Amazing Plants and Fungi
Because of this long history of coppicing, Bradfield Woods is home to an incredible variety of plants. More than 370 different plant species have been found here! That's a huge number for one woodland.
You can find some really rare and beautiful woodland flowers here. These include the lovely oxlip, the interesting herb paris, and the tasty-smelling ramson.
The woods are also a paradise for fungi. Scientists have found a rich variety of fungi species. In fact, two types of fungi found here haven't been recorded anywhere else in Britain! This makes Bradfield Woods a truly unique place for nature lovers.
Visiting Bradfield Woods
If you want to explore this fantastic nature reserve, you can find access from Felsham Road. This road is located to the west of a village called Gedding. It's a great place to visit and see nature up close!
