Barton Hills Nnr

Barton Hills NNR is mostly flower rich chalk grassland typical of the north Chilterns, including a large population of the nationally rare pasque flower. The reserve also includes areas of Chilterns beech woodland and ash-maple woodland.

Barton Hills NNR is a fine example of downland and woodland in the north Chilterns

Barton Hills NNR
County: Bedfordshire

Main habitats: Lowland chalk grassland, beech woodland. The whole 44 hectares of this reserve is also a Site of Special Scientific Interest (SSSI).

Why visit: Barton Hills NNR is mostly flower rich chalk grassland typical of the north Chilterns, including a large population of the nationally rare pasque flower. The reserve also includes areas of Chilterns beech woodland and ash-maple woodland, plus a number of springs flowing into a chalk stream at the foot of the valley.

Barton Hills is a popular destination for walkers, families and wildlife enthusiasts alike. The whole site is open access, and there are a number of footpaths throughout. Access is for pedestrians only, no bicycles, motorbikes or other vehicles allowed.

Star species: Colourful wild flowers cover the chalk grassland, including rarities such as the Pasque flower, greater pignut and field fleawort, plus classic downland plants like marjoram, rock rose and scabious. In summer you will see plenty of butterflies including chalkhill blue, marbled white and dark green fritillary.

The woodland contains an important population of large leaved lime trees and is also home to the scarce plant herb paris. Also, look out for mammals including stoats, weasels and hares.

This page is run by volunteers who love and care for the hills, please take care of them! This page is NOT affiliated or connected to Natural England.