Aileshurst Coppice

This small woodland near Leigh Sinton was established as a nature reserve to protect the rare yellow star-of-Bethlehem that is found here.  The presence of this plant resulted in the reserve being designated a Site of Special Scientific Interest (SSSI) in 1970.  The plant flowers in March and April and is followed by bluebells, primroses, wild garlic, wood anemones and violets.

Bordered by a meandering stream, the woodland consists largely of oak and ash trees with hazel and elm coppice.  Parts of the wood have been untouched for years.  Other areas of hazel and young ash are cut to the ground (coppiced) and left to re-grow every ten years or so.  This helps to provide extra sunlight for woodland flowers.

Please note that access is by permit only from the Trust's office at Lower Smite Farm.