Rowley Green Common facts for kids
Rowley Green Common is a special natural area in Arkley, north London. It covers about six hectares (which is like 15 football fields!). It's known as a Local Nature Reserve and is also a very important place for nature in London.
This common land is owned by the London Borough of Barnet. It is managed to protect its unique habitats and wildlife.
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What Makes Rowley Green Common Special?
Rowley Green Common is home to different types of natural areas. These include woodlands and heathlands.
The Peat Bog Habitat
One of the most important parts of Rowley Green Common is its peat bog. A peat bog is a wetland that has built up layers of dead plant material over thousands of years. These bogs are very rare in London.
This special bog is home to a plant called star sedge. This plant is also quite rare to find in London. The common also has old hedges, some of which are over 300 years old! There is also a large pond that is interesting for its plants.
History of Rowley Green Common
Rowley Green Common has a long and interesting history. It was once part of a larger estate called Shenleybury Manor.
How the Land Was Used
For many years, people used the land in different ways.
- Gravel Digging: In the past, people dug for gravel here. This digging created hollows that later filled with water, forming ponds and boggy areas.
- Cattle Grazing: Until the 1940s, farmers let their cattle graze on the common. This helped keep the land open.
- Second World War Use: During the Second World War, the army used the common for training exercises.
Becoming a Public Space
In 1934, the Barnet Urban District Council bought the land. This made Rowley Green Common a public open space for everyone to enjoy. Later, in 1991, the London Borough of Barnet officially made it a Local Nature Reserve. It was the very first place in the borough to get this special status!
Visiting Rowley Green Common
You can visit Rowley Green Common from Rowley Lane. It's located right next to Rowley Green Farm.
