Bourley and Long Valley

Bourley and Long Valley is a protected scientific area between Fleet and Aldershot covering approximately 800 hectares of heathland, woodland, scrub, mire, and grassland. The mix of different habitats supports a variety of plant and animal species across the landscape.

The site gained official protection status as a scientifically important conservation area in 1993, representing a turning point in British nature conservation efforts. This designation led to focused management aimed at preserving the valuable ecosystems and species found here.

The valley serves as an educational resource for environmental science students and researchers who study its geological formations and ecosystems.

The area can be explored on marked walking routes that guide visitors through its different habitats. Visitors should stay on designated paths and avoid sensitive zones and military sections to protect both wildlife and safety.

The site shelters rare and nationally scarce insect species found nowhere else locally, including a specialized wasp species, rare butterflies, and dragonflies. These creatures depend on the specific environmental conditions that exist nowhere else nearby.

GPS coordinates: 51.26900,-0.80100

Latest update: December 14, 2025 18:04