Farningham Woods Nature Reserve

Damaging tree insect found in Farningham Woods

A tree insect pest, the Oriental Chestnut Gall Wasp, has been found in the reserve.

This tiny insect poses no risk to people or their pets - it does not sting or bite - so you can continue to visit the woods.

However, you must not remove ANY plant material when you leave, because this could accidentally spread the pest.

The Council and the Forestry Commission are acting now to reduce the spread of the pest and are felling sweet chestnut trees in the affected area (the western / Button Street side of the woods).

Please be aware that for their own safety the public will not be allowed into the areas where trees are being felled.

Full information is available on the Forestry Commission website.
 

About Farningham Woods Nature Reserve

This 68 hectare (168 acre) area of ancient woodland covers the top of a hill to the north of Farningham Village and is a distinctive feature in the local landscape. 

It is jointly owned and managed by us and Farningham Parish Council and was designated as a Local Nature Reserve in 1987.  It is a Site of Special Scientific Interest (SSSI), which means it is one of the most valuable areas of woodland in Kent.

The woods are home to the Small-Leaved Lime, a rare tree which is only found on one other site in Kent.  There are several other unusual plants here including the largest British colony of the nationally rare Deptford Pink.  The fields on the north side of the woods are ex-arable land which has naturally reverted to chalk grassland. They are now grazed by sheep to help improve their nature conservation value.

There is a waymarked 1.6 mile walking route taking in most of the site and a network of other paths.

There are no specific facilities for cyclists or horse riders, however a byway crosses the site between Calfstock Lane and Button Street which can be used by both.

The nearest toilet facilities are in Farningham Village.
 

Location and how to find

Enter Farningham Woods from the A225 south of Horton Kirby.  A small car park is located at the end of Calfstock Lane, there is a height barrier in place.

The nearest station is at Farningham Road, two miles north of Calfstock Lane.