Clayfield Copse, Local nature reserve in Caversham, England
Clayfield Copse is a nature reserve at the northern edge of Reading, featuring open fields, wildflower meadows, and native woodlands. The site spans roughly 8.65 hectares and borders the countryside toward Oxfordshire.
The site was once part of the Caversham Park estate before becoming Reading's first designated Local Nature Reserve in 1991. This recognition marked a turning point in protecting local wildlife habitats in the area.
A sculpture trail winds through the woodland, blending artistic installations with natural features that visitors encounter along the way. The path shows how local artists have added creative elements to enhance the walking experience without disrupting the landscape.
The reserve has parking at Caversham Park Road, with walking paths, seating areas, and dog waste facilities throughout the grounds. The site remains accessible for visitors arriving by car or making it part of a longer walk through the area.
The reserve sits on the only outcrop of London Clay found north of the River Thames in Reading, forming part of the Chiltern Hills geology. This geological feature shapes the soil and plant life in ways that distinguish it from surrounding areas.
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