The second, somewhat larger, area of tree cover is ancient woodland which is known to have existed as far back at 1086 when it was recorded in the Domesday Book. This area is designated a Site of Special Scientific Interest because of its high ecological value. It comprises a rich mix of native trees including Oak, Ash, Wild Cherry and Hazel. In spring the woodland floor is carpeted in the colourful flowers of Bluebell, Wood Anemone, Yellow Archangel and Red Campion.

The woodland block nearer to the road is a younger plantation which was thinned and restocked with native broad-leaved trees in 1997.

In the open field between the two woodlands, over 5000 trees have been planted to link the existing wooded areas. Natural regeneration of tree seedlings out from the old wood will also be encouraged to increase further the value of the site.

In addition to this, an area has been seeded with a mix of locally indigenous species of grasses and wild flowers. The meadow will be cut for hay each year in late summer.

The woodland nearest to the road includes some access trails. A network of paths is also available around the rest of the site.

Location and car parking

The woods are 1 mile north of Groby, off the Newton Linford to Groby road in central Leicestershire. The site is beyond the Groby Quarry (postcode LE6 0HF).
Location Map
The car park at the entrance to the wood is now permanently closed.
Parking is available 10 minutes walk away at the Groby Pool car park, Newtown Linford Lane, nr Groby, LE6 0FR.
The pedestrian entrance to the wood is on Groby Lane, Newtown Linford, LE6 0HG going north just before Sevenoaks Nursery.

Open daily at the following times

Jan and Feb	Mar	Apr	May-August	Sept	Oct	Nov-Dec
7am-4pm	7am-6pm	7am-7pm	7am-8pm	7am-7pm	7am-6pm	7am-4pm

Contact Details

Tel: 0116 305 5000
Email: countryparks@leics.gov.uk
Address: Broombriggs Farm Estate Office, Beacon Road, Woodhouse Eaves, Loughborough, LE12 8SR

Conservation Volunteers

Volunteers constructing the Natural Play Area

Conservation volunteering is a great way to keep fit, meet people, learn new skills and to develop your knowledge of the countryside. No previous experience is necessary, just enthusiasm and a desire to get involved. All kit, relevant training and safety equipment will be provided. For more information have a look at the work programme for each of the three ranger teams.

Market Bosworth Country Park
- Mondays Western Diary (tel. 0116 305 5000)
Beacon Hill Country Park
- 2nd Sunday every month Beacon Diary (tel. 0116 305 5000)
Watermead Country Park
- 1st Thursday every month Watermead Diary (tel.0116 305 5000)

Please call for more details

If you have visited one of Leicestershire County Council's country parks recently, we'd love to hear your views to help us plan future improvements. Please complete our Country Parks Survey.

Page Last Updated: 18 July 2011