High Clear Down

High Clear Down is a Wiltshire

Wildlife Trust nature reserve

managed in a traditional way to

encourage chalk downland

pasture and its amazing plant

and animal life. 

 

It is just over 3km walk from the

centre of Aldbourne and the

walk will reward you with

Corn Buntings.

 

The reserve itself is a 10 hectare area of steep unimproved grassland that boasts no fewer than 6 species of orchids, the nationally scarce Early Gentian and, in May, an impressive carpet of Chalk Milkwort.  In addition, a selection of unusual butterflies are attracted to this special habitat with Duke of Burgundy, Adonis Blue, Chalkhill blue and Brown Argus all reported here, as well as many others.

 

The open grassland and lovely views make a great picnic spot in summer and with no paths there is free reign to explore the special flora of this site.

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More information and a downloadable brochure are available from the Wiltshire Wildlife Trust here:

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https://www.wiltshirewildlife.org/high-clear-down-marlborough

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