Stone Wood Nature Reserve

Set within a larger area of woodland, meadows, and ponds, Stone Wood is located in Shadoxhurst near Ashford.

The ancient woodland was planted with conifers by the Forestry Commission in the middle of the last century, but in the early 1990s it was deforested and left to regenerate naturally in the following decade.

Today it is managed by the Kent Wildlife Trust who have transformed it into a haven for native plants and wildlife. There are plenty of woodland birds to be spotted including blackcaps, woodpeckers, goldcrests, and nuthatches, while in late spring, nightingales can be heard singing from the cover of blackthorn. Look out too for the elusive turtle dove and buzzards, which are a common sight in the area.

There are no paths through the wood, so it’s not suitable for wheelchair users or those of limited mobility, but a public footpath runs alongside giving access. In winter, it can get muddy underfoot so care should be taken.

Volunteers from the KWT work in the woods on Tuesdays and Thursdays. Habitat management can be noisy, so please be aware before planning a visit.

There is no parking available near the woods, but in the summer, the surrounding bridleways and paths offer excellent opportunities for cycling.

Please note, no dogs are allowed on the reserve.