Looking to escape from the daily grind for a few hours, a friend suggested that we meet up at Snelsmore Common, near Newbury, Berkshire for a catch-up and an explore with our cameras.
Snelsmore Common is a 250 acre nature reserve managed by the Berkshire, Buckinghamshire and Oxfordshire Wildlife Trust and features a range of habitats but predominantly, heathland and woodland.
I love to come here towards the end of summer when the heathland comes to life with the flowering of the beautiful heathers.
I want to show you and explore the various facets of Snelsmore Common, from its stunning natural beauty, history, to the diverse activities it offers. Whether you’re an avid walker, a bird-watching enthusiast, or simply looking for a peaceful picnic spot, Snelsmore Common has something for everyone.
What is Snelsmore Common?
Snelsmore Common is a beautiful nature reserve located near Newbury in Berkshire, England. It is part of a larger area known as the North Wessex Downs Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty.
The common is characterized by its heathland habitat, which provides a unique environment for various species of plants and animals. It covers approximately 250 acres and is a designated Site of Special Scientific Interest (SSSI), highlighting its ecological importance.
Location and Accessibility
Accessing Snelsmore Common is relatively straightforward. It is located about 4 miles north of Newbury, Berkshire. It is easily reachable via the A34 road, not far off the M4, making it accessible for those traveling by car.
The nearest postcode is RG14 3BQ. There is a large car park that opens at 8 am each day but closes at 8 pm in summer and 6 pm in winter. If planning on staying as late as possible then please check the sign on entry that states when it closes.
Entrance to Snelsmore Common is free.
At the car park you will find a cafe and toilets.
The Heather
It wasn’t long into our walk that we came across the heather that Snelsmore Common is renowned for. The sun was shining down and the honeybees were darting in and out of the flowers in search of nectar.
There were a couple of different varieties of heather that we spotted and in fact, the reserve is home to three different types; ling heather, bell heather and cross leaved heath.
The rich purples and subtle lilacs of the flowers gave a gorgeous carpet to the land and looked even nicer against the bright green of the birch trees that dotted the land.
Walking Trails
At the entrance car park you will find a range of information boards, one of which has suggested walking routes that you can follow depending on your fitness and stamina.
We opted to go on the Lizard Trail route and began to follow the lizard signs as they lead us away from the car park. This walk is around 2.5 miles in total.
Other routes you can follow are:
Easy access (good for prams and wheelchairs) – 0.75 miles
Heathland Trail – 1.5 miles
Mire Trail – 1 mile
Dragonfly Route – 1 mile
Wildlife and Fauna
Along the way, we spotted signs of autumn beginning to appear – several species of fungi could be found hiding on the path edges and emerging on the trunks of some of the trees.
The ferns were generally still a vibrant shade of green, but some were beginning to tinge with the familiar colours of autumn.
We spotted several butterfly species along the way – mainly large white butterflies but as we ventured into more shaded areas within the woodland, a pair of specked wood butterflies were fluttering about each other in I assume some kind of courtship routine (either that or they were fighting!).
One of the highlights for me was managing to find a couple of common lizards dart from the edge of the path into the heathland. Of course they were way too quick for us to photograph though.
On this occasion we didn’t see too much in the way of birdlife but then perhaps our chatting wasn’t lending itself to finding it in the same way as if you were on your own.
There was a buzzard soaring overhead at one point and a coal tit, but if you take the time here then you can find species such as Green and Great Spotted Woodpeckers, the nuthatch and tawny owl.
During the summer, the reserve also sees the arrival of the rare nightjar, although these are extremely difficult to see due to their amazing camouflage and nocturnal habits.
If you are lucky as well you might just spot some of the ponies that roam this land. Both Exmoor and New Forest ponies graze here
The Snugg Cafe
After wandering around, catching up and photographing lots we headed back to the start of the walk to have a spot of lunch at the café, The Snugg.
Offering sandwiches, baguettes, tea and cakes this café is in a prime spot for those that have just finished a walk. They even catered for those walking with their four-legged friends by providing free dog water and treats and selling doggy ice cream.
Conclusion
This was my first ever visit to Snelsmore Common Nature Reserve and it certainly won’t be my last. My friend and I were already planning an autumn adventure to see the changes in the colours of the ferns and to photograph some of the fabulous fungi that’ll be emerging over the coming months.
I’d also like to explore some of the different walking routes that you can do here especially during the different seasons.
Snelsmore Common is a hidden gem that offers a unique blend of natural beauty, recreational activities, and historical significance. It provides a serene escape from the hustle and bustle of everyday life and is perfect for nature lovers, families, and anyone seeking tranquility. With its stunning landscapes, diverse wildlife, and numerous activities, there’s no shortage of reasons to visit this enchanting common.
FAQs
What are the best times to visit Snelsmore Common?
The best times to visit are during spring and autumn when the flora is vibrant and wildlife is most active. Early mornings and late afternoons are ideal for both views and wildlife spotting.
Can I bring my dog to Snelsmore Common?
Yes, dogs are welcome at Snelsmore Common. However, it’s essential to keep them on a lead during bird nesting season.
