About the reserve

A brighter shade of green in summer and a deep red-gold in autumn mark out Clunton Coppice from most other woods along the Clun Valley. Whatever the season, the distinctive, cauliflower shape of oak tree tops contrasts with the dark green points of conifers in the plantations that swathe large areas of the hills in this area.

This spacious oak wood is a vibrant remnant of woodland that once covered much of this south-western corner of the county. Historically, the oaks were managed for charcoal. This involved coppicing, cutting a swathe of them down each year then leaving them to grow back.

This is an all season wood, wonderful at any time with ferns, mosses, woodpeckers and fungi. Especially lovely in spring when it is ringing with birdsong including wood warblers and pied flycatchers. Climb up to the hill fort at Bury Ditches directly north of Clunton Coppice for the views and a reminder that people have lived here for thousands of years.  

Getting to Clunton Coppice

Turn left in the middle of Clunton village, coming off the B4368 from Craven Arms. Go straight over the bridge and continue up the hill. for approx 1.2km. There is a small car park on the right. To reach the reserve, return to the lane and walk further up for 200m, where a board and track marks the entry point.