About the reserve

The South Blean Woodlands are a mixture of native deciduous woodland and conifer plantations sitting on the high ground, surrounded by pleasant orchards and pasture on the lower ground.  The woodland is undulating and is crisscrossed with ancient wood banks and tracks.  Most of the woodland has been commercially managed and has also been relatively poor for wildlife.  Kent Wildlife Trust is breathing life back into the woodland by the staged removal of conifer plantations, re-instating coppicing, creating open space for wildlife and grazing areas of the wood.  In time, the woodland will be transformed from a commercial forest into a rich mosaic of habitats where wildlife can thrive.  Views are now opening up that have not been seen in over 30 years.