Castle Bottom National Nature Reserve

Castle Bottom National Nature Reserve is a small lowland site containing one of the most important valley mires in southern England, with associated heathland and woodland habitats.The reserve has recently been designated as a Special Protection Area (SPA) which are sites of European Importance for their bird populations, and heathland birds.

The site can be enjoyed by visitors via the network of footpaths which cross the site. Access is for walkers only and dogs must be kept on a lead during the breeding bird season from March until September and/or when cattle are grazing the site.

Site Access
The site has only one public right of way leading from the ‘middle gate’ north towards the site of the old cottages. We have created a number of permissive paths running across the site, which link up with existing footpaths and bridleways outside the boundary of the reserve. Please keep to these footpaths so that the important habitats and their associated species are not disturbed.

Due to the sensitive and very wet nature of the site there are no facilities for horse riding or cycling on the site itself. There is however a permissive bridleway running along the eastern edge of the County Council holdings, just outside the fence line and another that joins it within Forestry Commission land running adjacent to the southern boundary of the site. It is thus possible to ride from Yateley Common to Coopers Hill. Whilst these bridleways are outside of the boundary, they run along the high ground adjacent to the reserve, providing wonderful views across the site.

Volunteers
Work parties that meet regularly to carry out practical conservation and habitat management. The team also has a maximum number of three long term volunteers at any one time. Short term work experience placements are also offered to those over 18 years old.

For more details about volunteering with the Northern Area Team contact Andy Davidson tel 01252 870425.

The Yateley Society Volunteers meet on the last Sunday of every month to take part in practical conservation work, as well as having plenty of tea, coffee and biscuits! Meeting point is Wyndhams Pond car park, off Cricket Hill Lane, Yateley, at 10am. Under 18s must be accompanied by an adult.
Please contact Mike Mann tel 01252 877741.