Grid Ref: SO 935035 | Area: 26.6 Hectares | Volunteer Here
Siccaridge is a wonderful example of an ancient coppiced woodland, a joy at any time of year. A spring-time walk will reward the visitor with fantastic displays and scents of the carpets of bluebells, wild garlic and wood anemones. Herb-paris and the nationally scarce angular solomon’s seal are also present. Lily-of-the-valley is also a feature of the reserve. The best area to see this plant, which is at its best in late May, is in a small glade just off the track known as the Morley ride that runs through the centre of the reserve.
The woodland provides perfect habitat for the rare dormouse which scurries through the canopy. Other mammals to be seen are roe and muntjac deer which are seen throughout the year. Look out for the large ant nests at the edge of rides and footpaths made by the wood ant Formica rufa.
The open rides provide excellent habitat for a number of common and uncommon species of butterfly such as comma, pearl-bordered fritillary and silver washed fritillary.
The disused canal at the bottom of the valley now provides wetland habitat where large stands of yellow-flag iris can be seen as well as providing breeding areas for frogs. Evidence of otters has also been found.
Directions
Take the A419 Cirencester to Stroud road and turn right at Chapmans Cross. Follow the road for half a mile then turn left at the crossroads towards Sapperton. Park in the small lay-by at the bottom of the hill. Walk across the old canal bridge and turn left into the wood.
Siccaridge Wood Nature Reserve Leaflet
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