Melwood Local Nature Reserve
- Provided by:
- Cambridgeshire County Council
This small (0.6 hectare) broad leaved woodland is an important local site for the village of Meldreth. The woodland is adjacent to the River Mel, a tributary of the River Cam (or Rhee).
Melwood contains open woodland and dense thicket, riverside habitat, an open grassy ride and many mature trees. Various events are also held on site.
Habitat type
Open woodland, riverside habitat, grass ride, hedges.
Grid Reference
TL3780 4590
Conservation Status
Local Nature Reserve
Wildlife
Ash forms the dominant tree species in the woodland, with hawthorn being very common as well.
There are also planted trees including:
- hazel
- field maple
- blackthorn
- beech
- horse chestnut
- willow
Ground cover plants include:
- dog violet
- cow parsley
- bluebells
- primroses
Traveller's Joy is present in the dense thicket of ash and hawthorn and provides a valuable food source for several species of moth.
Dead trees and rotting wood provide food for many bird species and ivy provides roosting shelter for tawny owls and pipistrelle bats.
Melwood Conservation Group
The County Council leases Melwood to Meldreth Parish Council. As part of this agreement the Melwood Conservation Group was formed to undertake management of the site.
The Group, along with Meldreth Village Association also organise community events each year. These have previously included bird walks, woodland walks and village picnics. Follow the link on the right-hand side for more information about the group.
Facilities and equipment
Open access via Public Footpath number 6 (Meldreth), which runs along the River Mel, an important wildlife habitat in its own right.
This footpath can be accessed from Flambards Close, Meldreth - Melwood is north of the footbridge. Many smaller paths run through the woodland, including one along the ride, which is an attractive habitat for butterflies and dragonflies.
- Age range: 1 - 99
- Type: Local Authority Service
Last updated on: 10/06/2021
