King's Wood Nature Reserve
In medieval times Rockingham Forest covered much of north-east Northamptonshire – King’s Wood is a small fragment of this once great forest
This ancient woodland was managed for centuries as Crown coppice, providing shelter for the King’s deer as well as wood for fuel. With the expansion of Corby, it became the first Local Nature Reserve (LNR) in Northamptonshire.
King’s Wood is now encircled by the neighbourhoods of Danesholme, Kingswood, Beanfield and Oakley Vale, but the 32-hectare wood continues to be an important home for many plants and animals and a cherished green haven for those living nearby.
Trails
Walk the Corby heritage trail, which connects 6 stunning woodlands and parks, and discover Corby’s local history along the way.
King's Wood is an important urban habitat for many plants and animals, making it a great spot for wildlife watching. The wood is a good example of oak-ash woodland. While it doesn't meet the full criteria for SSSI status, it is an important addition to the county’s nature reserves.
Over 250 plant species have been recorded at the reserve, including many typical of ancient woodlands, such as wood anemone, dog’s mercury, enchanter’s-nightshade, yellow archangel, and wood sorrel.
You can find tawny owls, treecreepers, and all three species of woodpecker at King's Wood, along with many other birds. The reserve is also home to a wide range of invertebrates, including various butterflies, dragonflies, damselflies, and beetles.Oak-ash woodland
Location
Conservation and improvements
The Woodland Project carries out conservation work with the Wildlife Trust and the Friends of King's Wood, a volunteer group dedicated to caring for the wood.
The Wildlife Trust is working hard to make King's Wood more welcoming and accessible to visitors. Improvements will include better signage and interpretation, along with opportunities to get involved through events, activities, and volunteering.
For more information about King's Wood, upcoming events, and the Wildlife Trust, visit the Wildlife Trust BCN website.
Volunteer
Find out more about how to get involved in volunteering or Friends groups in the Corby area.
Last updated 13 December 2024