Silver Street Local Nature Reserve

Woodland, picnic area, meadow, views, pond life, nature, wildlife

Silver Street Local Nature Reserve is a true gem! Nestled into the hillside on the edge of Midsomer Norton the reserve has woodland, a meadow, a pond and babbling springs. There are indications that there has been a woodland on the site for hundreds of years.

Tree species include oak, ash, hazel and it is thought that it was traditionally managed as a coppice. This would account for the colourful range of spring flowers that are to be found in the woodland such as Bluebells, Dog Violets, Celandines and Ramsons (wild garlic).

Originally the nature reserve would have been part of the estate connected to a large house, which was demolished in the 1930’s. The only structural sign of this that remains is a stone spring head within the wood that is thought to have collected spring water to be piped down to the house.

There is an assortment of wildflowers to be found in the four acre meadow providing a haven for insects and butterflies it is also a great spot to take in the view. In the daytime Sparrow Harks hunt in the local area and the Meadow. At night the resident pair of tawny owls are to be heard calling to each other and there are several species of bat zipping up and down the hedgerows.

Over the past few years’ access has been improved and there is also an interpretation board at the entrance to the site. A variety of events take place throughout the year that is well supported by the local community.

Our present projects are establishing a circular pathway through the woodland and creating another entrance. The pond is taking up a lot of our time coppicing the trees to allow more light in so that we can plant various pond plants.