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About The Warren
Ashford Warren is a 35 Hectare nature reserve managed by Kent Wildlife Trust. It is a designated Local Wildlife Site consisting of grassland, woodland, ponds and woodland glades and is situated close to the heart of Ashford.
To help us manage the various habitats, Ashford Warren becomes a seasonal home to a herd of Highland Cattle. Walkers can enjoy the waymarked circular routes but there are also areas with steep inclines, steps and uneven surfaces. There is also an all-weather path which runs along the bottom of the reserve. The Warren has become a favourite spot for cyclists but please note that this is only permitted in certain areas of the woodland. Dogs are welcome but please remember to keep them on a lead.
Facilities at The Warren
- Pets Allowed
- Free car parking
- Suitable for families
Nearby businesses
Ashford International Hotel
In the heart of Kent, Ashford International Hotel is ideally situated to explore the Garden of… In the heart of Kent, Ashford International Hotel is ideally situated to explore the Garden of England.
Docker Bakery, Ashford
Plant based bakery where you can find delicious, sourdough, pastries and cakes. Plant based bakery where you can find delicious, sourdough, pastries and cakes.
Travelodge Ashford
Our Ashford hotel is close to the McArthur Glen Designer Outlet so it's perfect for fashionistas… Our Ashford hotel is close to the McArthur Glen Designer Outlet so it's perfect for fashionistas looking for a bargain.
Cineworld, Ashford
12 screen cinema complex which is conveniently located in Eureka Leisure Park 12 screen cinema complex which is conveniently located in Eureka Leisure Park
Frequently asked questions
- https://www.kentwildlifetrust.org.uk/nature-reserves/ashford-warren-hoads-wood
Ashford Warren & Hoads Wood is a Kent Wildlife Trust nature reserve on the edge of Ashford. This hidden natural oasis features ancient veteran trees, woodland, ponds, rare acid grassland and a variety of wildlife.
- Where is Ashford Warren & Hoads Wood located?
The reserve is located on Warren Lane, Ashford, Kent, TN24 8UF. It is approximately a 37-minute walk from Ashford International railway station.
- Is there an entrance fee?
No. The reserve is free to visit and open to the public throughout the year.
- When is the best time to visit?
The reserve can be enjoyed year-round. Spring visitors can enjoy carpets of bluebells and pond water violet, while autumn brings beautiful seasonal colours and opportunities to admire the site's impressive veteran trees.
- What wildlife can I see?
Visitors may spot woodpeckers, nuthatches, treecreepers, frogs and a wide range of insects. During the summer months, Highland cattle may also be seen grazing across parts of the reserve as part of conservation management.
- Are dogs allowed?
Yes, dogs are welcome. Visitors are asked to keep dogs on a lead and under effective control to help protect wildlife and other visitors.
- Is parking available?
Yes, there is a car park at the end of Warren Lane. Visitors should note that the surface is rough, uneven and located on a slope.
- Are there walking routes?
Yes. An all-weather path runs along the lower edge of the reserve, and there is a compacted gravel path leading from the car park to the main pond. More adventurous routes include woodland trails with uneven terrain, steps and slopes.
- Is the reserve suitable for people with limited mobility?
Access is limited in places. The route from the car park to the main pond is relatively accessible and includes one RADAR kissing gate, but many other paths feature steep inclines, steps and uneven surfaces.
- Can I cycle to the reserve?
Yes, visitors can cycle to the reserve, although there is currently no bicycle parking available on site.
- Is Ashford Warren & Hoads Wood suitable for families?
Yes. Families can enjoy gentle walks, wildlife spotting, seasonal displays of flowers and a chance to explore one of Ashford's most fascinating natural spaces. The reserve offers a peaceful outdoor experience close to the town centre.
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