Ham Woods is a Local Nature Reserve coverings 35.9 hectares (that's about 36 full-sized football pitches) and is located just south of the A38, adjacent to the Burrington Industrial Estate and north of the areas of Ham and Pennycross. We own and manage the site and habitats include woodland, rough grassland, hedgerows and marsh. Sited in a steep valley, it is a lovely place to walk, play and relax. More than 200 species of plants and almost 80 species of birds have been recorded within the woods, a great place to enjoy and learn about nature.
The most recent improvements to the site carried out by the Stepping Stones to Nature project have included putting in good quality paths and installing new signage designed by Mayflower Primary School children.
Why not enjoy a circular walk through the reserve? Follow the Blue or Red routes for a 30 minute circular walk. Take in historic Ham Lane, enjoying the sounds of the ancient woodland and join the path alongside the babbling brook. There are some steps, slopes and uneven ground on the route.
https://www.plymouth.gov.uk/parksnatureandgreenspace/localnaturereserves/hamwoodslnr
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Local Nature Reserves (LNR's) are living green spaces which are important for people and support vibrant wildlife. They are important to the health and prosperity of our city, providing ecosystem services including absorbing carbon, cleaning the air, providing opportunities for pollinating insects and natural flood management. They are free for the public to visit, learn about nature and enjoy the health and wellbeing benefits of being outdoors in nature.
There are now 13 Local Nature Reserves in Plymouth (12 of these are owned and managed by Plymouth City Council in partnership with local communities). Volunteer groups are crucial in managing these sites, regular work parties and volunteer groups carry out management activities across the sites.
All unitary, district and county councils can acquire, declare and manage Local Nature Reserves.
In 2018 3 new reserves were designated bringing the total area of LNR within the city to 297 hectares – which is well above the national standard of 1 hectare for every 1000 people.
https://www.plymouth.gov.uk/parksnatureandgreenspaces/localnaturereserve
