Naphill Common

Naphill Common is a woodland area of about 71 hectares with numerous oak and beech trees, acid heath sections, wet areas, and several ponds spread throughout the site. The different habitats create varied terrain with both forested and open ground.

The site shows traces of Roman settlement and later medieval iron smelting activities, evidenced by pottery fragments found dating from the 12th to 15th centuries. These archaeological remains reveal early human activity across different periods.

The common maintains traditional usage rights where local residents can gather firewood and exercise customary land practices passed down through generations. These long-established customs continue to shape how the space functions today.

The site is accessible through several entry points including Forge Road and Chapel Lane, with marked paths and bridleways crossing the area. Wear appropriate footwear as paths can become muddy, especially after wet weather.

The area contains ancient pollard oaks and beeches whose gnarled trunks provide specialized habitats for rare invertebrates and uncommon lichen species. These old trees are living witnesses to centuries of management and support distinctive wildlife.

GPS coordinates: 51.66775,-0.78607

Latest update: December 14, 2025 18:07