Curtis Wood Park, Canterbury, England United Kingdom

Curtis Wood Park is an informal area of protected open space situated on the outskirts of Herne, Kent. The site provides local residents and visitors the opportunity to enjoy a variety of semi-natural habitats in a relaxed and pleasant setting that also provides a valuable sanctuary for wildlife. Recognition of the sites value to widlife is demonstrated by the woodland and part of the meadow area being designated a Local Nature Reserve. The site also won a Green Flag award this year, a scheme which recognises the best green spaces in the country.

The large meadow is left to grow long throughout the spring and summer, allowing butterflies and other insects to thrive and wildflowers to grow. The wood is comprised of mainly oak, ash and hawthorn and in the springtime the woodland floor is carpeted in spectacular displays of bluebells and wood anenomes, which make the most of the sunlight before the leaf canopy closes over. Additionally, both greater butterfly and early purple orchids also grow within the woodland. The presence of small areas of scrub as well as a large pond provide further variety in terms of habitat for a range of other animals.

A short route within the woodland is waymarked and interpretation panels have been installed whilst further improvements to existing access routes are also planned. The site is easily accessible by use of public transport whilst two Public Rights of Way that pass through the site provide an important connection out into the wider countryside including the Blean National Nature Reserve.