Saltbox Hill, Nature reserve in Biggin Hill, London Borough of Bromley, England
Saltbox Hill is a nature reserve featuring chalk grassland, ancient woodland, and scrub on steep slopes across roughly 22 hectares. The site supports specialized plant and animal communities adapted to these distinct habitats.
The land gained protected status in 1985 and came partly under management by the London Wildlife Trust in 1999. These steps aimed to halt natural decline and preserve its ecological value.
The location near Charles Darwin's residence, Down House, provided the naturalist with research opportunities and outdoor recreation spots.
Access is available from Hanbury Drive and Saltbox Hill Road, with public transport near the A233 Main Road. The steep terrain calls for proper footwear and a measured pace when exploring.
The reserve hosts around ten orchid species and is one of only a few places in London where Dark Green Fritillary butterflies survive. These rare insects depend on specific grasses that thrive in this terrain.
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