Bramley Bank

Bramley Bank is a woodland reserve in Upper Shirley covering about 10 hectares and dominated by oak, ash, and sycamore trees. A pond surrounded by yellow flag and flote grass sits within the protected area and provides habitat for aquatic life.

The area developed as a narrow strip of woodland in the mid-1800s, stretching between Ballards Plantation and Littleheath Wood. It was eventually designated as a protected reserve to safeguard this fragment of local forest.

The London Wildlife Trust manages this space as a local nature destination for residents to observe and experience woodland life. The site serves as a gathering place where visitors can connect with the natural world on their doorstep.

The reserve can be reached through entry points along Ballards Way, Broadcoombe, and Riesco Drive in Upper Shirley. Wear proper footwear as paths become muddy during wet seasons, especially around the pond area.

The reserve shelters nuthatches, song thrushes, purple hairstreak butterflies, yellow meadow ants, and pipistrelle bats within its woodland. This mix of creatures demonstrates how even small, fragmented woodlands can support diverse wildlife.

Location: London Borough of Croydon

GPS coordinates: 51.35400,-0.05800

Latest update: December 14, 2025 16:42