Crane Valley Local Nature Reserve

Situated close to the centre of Cranbrook, Crane Valley Local Nature Reserve is a small but well-kept area of woodland and marshy meadow, perfect for introducing younger children to the delights of the natural world. The adjacent recreation ground also has swings and a slide, while for older kids there’s a skate ramp. Popular as a short-cut for locals going to the shops, the area is busy all day long. The north-east section of the site contains a small area of mixed, semi-natural woodland containing English oaks and hornbeams alongside ash, hazel and willow nearer the stream. In the undergrowth, you’ll also find wild gooseberry, redcurrant and raspberry shrubs. The damp nature of the woodland means it can also support bitter cress, a rare wildflower. The central marsh can be seen from paths running around the site – on the northern edge there is a raised walkway providing enhanced access. This area is rich in insect life, including some rare species such as the long-horn bee. Dense with rushes and marsh marigold, in spring the meadow is carpeted with ragged robin.