Combwell Wood facts for kids
| Site of Special Scientific Interest | |
 |
|
| Area of Search | Kent |
|---|---|
| Interest | Biological |
| Area | 110.6 hectares (273 acres) |
| Notification | 1991 |
| Location map | Magic Map |
Combwell Wood is a very special forest in Kent, England. It covers about 110.6 hectares, which is like 273 football fields! This amazing place is located south-east of Tunbridge Wells. It's officially known as a Site of Special Scientific Interest (SSSI) because of its unique plants and animals.
Combwell Wood is also part of the High Weald Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty. This means it's a beautiful landscape that is protected for everyone to enjoy. The wood is quite interesting because it's split into 36 different parts, each owned by different people.
What Makes Combwell Wood Special?
Combwell Wood is an ancient forest. This means trees have grown here for a very long time. People have traditionally managed parts of this wood using a method called coppicing. This is when trees are cut down close to the ground. They then grow back from the stump. This helps keep the forest healthy.
Ancient Plants and Insects
Some parts of Combwell Wood have probably never been disturbed. These areas are often on steep slopes. Here, you can find very rare and tiny plants called bryophytes. These are like mosses and liverworts. Scientists think these plants have been living here for about 5,000 years! They are survivors from a very old warm period in Earth's history.
The wood is also home to some special insects. Several types of water beetles found here are very rare across the country. This shows how important Combwell Wood is for protecting different kinds of wildlife.
Visiting Combwell Wood
Combwell Wood is mostly private land. However, there is a public footpath that goes right through it. This means you can still enjoy a walk and see some of the amazing nature it holds. Remember to respect the private land and stay on the public path.
