Pewsey Downs NNR
Pewsey Downs NNR lies on the southern edge of the Marlborough Downs situated on a steep south-facing slope overlooking the Vale of Pewsey. The reserve includes three hills: Milk, Walkers and Knap.
County: Wiltshire
Main habitats: Lowland Grassland
Area: 166 Ha
Link to site map: Nature on the Map
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Pewsey Downs is one of the finest examples of chalk downland in southern England. It is a Special Area of Conservation (SAC) under the European Habitats and Species Directive.
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describing this reserve.
The flower-rich grasslands which occur on the Downs have developed over the Upper Chalk due mainly to the low level of plant nutrients in the soil. This nutrient-poor soil prevents more vigorous plant species dominating the finer herbs.
While the lack of nutrients is important, the localised climate, steepness of slope, aspect and amount of - or even the lack of - soil also creates a variety of conditions ideal for a wide range of plants.
Plant species found in the reserve include common spotted, frog and fragrant orchids, field fleawort, early gentian, round-headed rampion and bastard toadflax. Butterflies include marble white, skipper, green hairstreak, wall brown and chalkhill blue.
Location and access
We encourage the use of sustainable transport whenever possible.
The NNR is next to the village of Alton Barnes, 12km northwest of Pewsey and 30km east of Devizes.
The nearest train station is Pewsey.
Local bus services are provided by Connect2Wiltshire.
Access by car is via the minor road that runs north from the village of Alton Barnes to Lockeridge, eventually joining the A4 4km west of Marlborough. A car park is located 2km north of Alton Barnes.
The NNR is also on the White Horse Trail a 145 km circular trail connecting the chalk horses found in the region.
Facilities
The nearest toilet and refreshment facilities are in Pewsey. There are signs with visitor information at the reserve.
