Hartlebury Common, Protected heathland near Stourport-on-Severn, England.
Hartlebury Common is a 90-hectare (222-acre) lowland heath near Stourport-on-Severn with a patchwork of sandy soils, river terraces, and wetland zones. These varied habitats support rare plant species adapted to different moisture and soil conditions found across the site.
The site was designated as a Site of Special Scientific Interest in 1955 and was re-notified in 1986 to strengthen protection for its ecological and geological features. This formal recognition has helped preserve the natural character of the landscape over recent decades.
The site serves as a sanctuary for rare insects and breeding birds that thrive in the open heath and wetland pockets. Visitors can observe these creatures year-round, particularly during bird breeding season and in summer when insect activity peaks.
You can reach the site through several access points with parking available at Wilden Top, Lower Poollands, and along the A4025 road. Wear sturdy footwear as paths can become muddy, especially after rain or in wetter months.
The ground beneath your feet is made up of wind-blown sand layered over two ancient River Severn terraces, creating an unusual geological sandwich. This layering tells the story of how the landscape changed after the last ice age.
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