Totteridge Fields facts for kids
Quick facts for kids Totteridge Fields |
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IUCN Category IV (Habitat/Species Management Area)
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Location | Barnet |
Nearest city | London, England |
Area | 6.9 hectares (17 acres) |
Governing body | London Wildlife Trust |
Totteridge Fields is a special natural area in Totteridge, located in the London Borough of Barnet. It's a very important place for nature, covering about 97 hectares (that's like 240 football fields!). This area is known as a Site of Metropolitan Importance for Nature Conservation (SINC), which means it's one of the best places in London for wildlife.
Part of Totteridge Fields, about seven hectares, is a Local Nature Reserve. This part is owned by the Barnet Council and looked after by the London Wildlife Trust. It's a fantastic spot to explore nature right in the city!
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Exploring Totteridge Fields
Totteridge Fields is a large area of natural grassland with old hedgerows. It sits between Totteridge Common and Mays Lane. The Dollis Brook also flows through here, which is another important nature spot.
The Local Nature Reserve
The Local Nature Reserve part of Totteridge Fields is a very old hay meadow. Imagine fields that have been growing wild for a very long time! These fields are called Nutt Field, Hen Mead, and Nearer Slay Land. They are surrounded by hedgerows made of hawthorn and blackthorn bushes. You can find the entrance to this special area on Hendon Wood Lane, near Arkley.
Plants and Animals You Might See
The grasslands at Totteridge Fields are home to many different kinds of wildflowers. You might spot beautiful flowers like sneezewort and harebell. These flowers add lots of color to the fields!
This area is also a safe home for many animals. You might be lucky enough to hear or see a skylark. These birds are becoming rarer, so it's wonderful they have a place here. The fields also host several types of rare beetles and spiders, making it a busy place for tiny creatures too!
Walking and Exploring
If you love walking, Totteridge Fields is a great place to visit. Two popular walking paths, the Dollis Valley Greenwalk and the London Loop, cross right through Totteridge Fields. This means you can enjoy the beautiful scenery while getting some exercise. It's a perfect spot for a nature walk with friends or family!