Nature SIG – Trip to Old Down

Submission from Lesley Taylor

Old Down Woodland Park, Basingstoke

On Sunday 13th July, Paul organised a trip to Old Down Woodland Park near Basingstoke, and what a beautiful morning it was. This was a new destination for the three of us who went with him and it was an absolute treat. The most beautiful wild flower meadow I’ve ever seen, it was awash with field scabious, wild carrot and knapweed to name just a few of the flowers that were attracting a huge range of invertebrates. We saw at least 9 different butterfly species and more types of bees and hoverflies than it was possible to count.

After a couple of hours the sun was a bit harsh and we were overheating so we adjourned to a nearby pub for a much appreciated cold drink and a chat. We’ll definitely return!

Further information at Old Down Woodland Park – Woodland Trust