Our much-loved woodland attraction is evolving to support nature first

Ridlands Grove has long been a place of quiet enchantment, particularly for families drawn to the “animal houses” hidden among the trees. While many of the original structures have now been removed or not reinstated, visitors will still find a rare ancient woodland, rich in imagination and increasingly focused on supporting wildlife in a more natural and sustainable way.

The original animal houses, which included whimsical features such as the Peter Rabbit Post Office and Hedgehog Hall, were hugely popular and fondly remembered by the majority of Chart residents and visitors alike. However, increased footfall, particularly during the COVID lockdowns of 2020, led to concerns from a few residents about visitor numbers, parking and safety issues.

Although there were claims that some of the houses were “vandalised” by youths or people up to no good in the woodland, this has never actually been conclusively established. However, once the structures had been damaged, the National Trust made the decision to remove them. Instead, in line with wider woodland management plans, the Trust has chosen to adopt a more natural approach to supporting the creatures that live at Ridlands Grove.

A More Natural Woodland Experience

Today, Ridlands Grove continues to offer a rewarding experience for visitors willing to look a little more closely. Along the woodland trail, you can still spot features such as the Stag Beetle Hotel, Mouse House and Owl House, while newer installations have been added with wildlife firmly in mind.

Two new owl boxes have been installed on the edge of the woodland, and there are numerous bat and bird boxes positioned high in the trees. The bat boxes, which are clustered together (just as bats prefer!) can be found in the woodland alongside the golf fairway. How many can you spot during your visit?

In addition, carefully placed wood piles now provide natural habitats for a wide variety of woodland creatures, from insects and amphibians to small mammals. Areas of dead-hedging have also been introduced, creating protected spaces where wildlife can breed, shelter and move about undisturbed.

There are also boards which educate visitors about the species of wildlife in the woodland and spotter sheets can be downloaded from our website’s Flora & Fauna page.

Our fabulous Taskforce have many projects ongoing for their Thursday sessions, but a few key activities include:

• Continuing forestry work to remove invasive species, such as laurel
• Thinning areas of holly that have become too dense, to allow light to reach the forest floor
• Processing and controlled burning some cut plant material over the winter period in order to reduce fire hazards in the summer

Respecting the Woodland

To help protect Ridlands Grove for both wildlife and future visitors, the National Trust asks everyone to follow a few simple guidelines:

• Please respect fenced-off areas and do not enter them.
• Do not walk over bluebells in spring; fenced areas are in place to prevent damage.
• Stick to the designated paths and treat the woodland with care.
• Keep dogs under close control, and preferably on a lead – especially in spring, when young wildlife is present and lambs and calves can be found in neighbouring fields.
• Horseriders and cyclists must stick to the bridleways and be mindful of walkers and families.
• Take your litter home, or use the litter bins provided in each car park.

Visiting Ridlands Grove

Location: Ridlands Grove is located off Ridlands Lane, Limpsfield Chart, near Oxted, Surrey.

Parking: National Trust car park at Ridlands Grove. Visitors are advised to be mindful of their surroundings and not to leave valuables in their vehicles.

While the fairy doors and miniature buildings may no longer be a central feature, Ridlands Grove remains a special place – one that rewards curiosity, patience and an appreciation for nature in its quieter, more authentic form.

www.friendsoflimpsfieldcommon.org