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Kent 4 star Council

Contacts

Countryside Access Service
Invicta House
County Hall
Maidstone
Kent
ME14 1XX

Telephone icon08458 247 600

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Blean Woods National Nature Reserve

Image ofexternallow Locate this park on a map

Blean Woods National Nature Reserve

11 Garden Close
Rough Common
Canterbury
CT2 9BP

Opening times:
Open all the time (car park hours 8am to 9pm)

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Image oficon-tel01227 455972

Managed by:
RSPB, KCC, Woodland Trust, Natural England, Canterbury City Council and Swale Borough Council

Anemones at Blean Woods - image courtesy of Dave Rogers

One of the largest areas of deciduous woodland in south-east England, Blean Woods has a wealth of wildlife for you to discover. Around 35 pairs of the fabled nightingale sing, beautifully, each spring, from dense coppice that also holds willow warbler, blackcap and garden warbler.

The 180-year-old oakwood supports three species of woodpecker as well as nuthatch, tree creeper, tawny owl, woodcock and many common species. The heathland is home to nightjar, tree pipit and whitethroat.

In summer the wide rides and sunny glades are alive with butterflies and other insects. And in June, look out for the very rare heath fritillary butterfly - whose caterpillars feed on cow-wheat.

  • Paths are largely suitable for electric scooters
  • The nearest train stations are Canterbury East or Canterbury West (2 miles).

Visit the RSPB website (link opens in a new window) for more information on Blean Woods National Nature Reserve.

Facilities and Other Information

parking Parking

toilets Picnic area

public transport Public transport

visitor guide Visitor guide

Copyright Kent County Council 2008