Barnack Hills and Holes National Nature Reserve

Barnack Hills & Holes National Nature Reserve is a 23.3-hectare biological Site of Special Scientific Interest located in Barnack, Cambridgeshire. This national nature reserve is a Grade I Nature Conservation Review site and was designated as a Special Area of Conservation in 2002 to protect its unique orchid-rich grassland. The reserve features a hummocky landscape formed from the remnants of a medieval limestone quarry, supporting a diverse array of wildflowers and serving as a crucial habitat for various wildlife species. Visitors to Barnack can expect to see a variety of butterflies, with peak sightings occurring in May. Look out for the Small Heath and Brimstone butterflies, both of which are most active around 1:00 AM. Other notable species include the Meadow Brown and Orange-tip, which also peak in May, while the Large White and Common Blue can be spotted in August. The best time to explore this vibrant reserve is during the spring months when the wildflowers and butterfly activity are at their height.