Barford Wood and Meadows

UK Wildlife Trusts

Barford Wood and Meadows is a tranquil 36-hectare nature reserve located east of Rushton in Northamptonshire. Once part of the medieval Royal Forest of Rockingham, it features diverse habitats, including hay meadows, parkland, and newly-planted woodland. The reserve is notable for its Site of Special Scientific Interest status, particularly the rich hay meadow, which is home to a variety of flowering plants and numerous butterfly species. Wildlife enthusiasts can look for species such as the wren and song thrush, both peaking in January. The reserve also hosts butterflies like large skippers and orange-tips, making early summer an ideal time to visit. For those interested in other wildlife, red kites and carrion crows have been observed, with activity peaking in the early hours.

Managed by

UK Wildlife Trusts