Mill Hill, Shoreham, nature reserve in West Sussex, England
Mill Hill is a small nature reserve above Shoreham-by-Sea containing chalk grassland, shrubs, and young woodland across approximately 13 hectares. A surfaced path about 500 meters long provides easy access to the site for all visitors, including those with mobility needs.
The site was given to the local council in 1934 and was once famous for large populations of blue butterflies and wildflowers that drew visitors from considerable distances. Over subsequent decades, changing land management and declining rabbit populations allowed shrubs to overrun the open grassland.
The name refers to the site's past use as a milling location in earlier centuries. Today, local residents use this space as a natural refuge from the busy coastal town, and it serves as a gathering place for those interested in observing wildlife and learning about chalk grassland ecology.
Visit on dry days when the paths are most pleasant to walk on. Bring your own water and snacks since there are no cafes or shops on site, and help protect the wildlife by staying quiet and keeping to the marked paths.
Local volunteers are actively removing invasive plants and using Herdwick sheep to restore the grassland to its natural state. Visitors can witness this ongoing restoration work, offering a unique chance to see landscape recovery in action and observe how communities collaborate to bring wildlife back.
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