Leechpool and Owlbeech woods
Leechpool Woods is a site of ancient woodland. There are five signposted walking trails that cover different habitats, including a sculpture trail. Owlbeech Woods is restored heathland that supports a rare selection of flora and fauna. The combined woods cover 109 acres. Admission to both sites is free and they are open all year round.
A walk around Leechpool and Owlbeech Woods
Take a walk with us around Leechpool and Owlbeech Woods in our video below.
Parking
Leechpool Woods car park is off Harwood Road and is free. Free parking is also available next to South Holmes Play Area.
Middle Heath Enclosure
October 2024 - January 2025
Visitors to the woods should be aware that Middle Heath enclosure will be re-opening for public access for three months over this winter period.
From early January, Middle Heath will then be closed again to protect the sensitive habitat and ground nesting birds who start establishing nesting territories. We will be continuing our regular bird survey work throughout 2025.
As part of our on-going woodland management, our small herd of British White cattle will also be grazing the heath at selected times during October and December, and volunteers may be working in the area.
Access across the rest of Leechpool and Owlbeech Woods remains unchanged.
Grazing Animals
As part of our on-going land management strategy, please be aware that grazing animals are used in Owlbeech Woods. These include cattle, sheep and domestic horses. They help to create and maintain the woodland and heathland habitats and the complexity of diverse scrubby ecotones between.
We would ask all our visitors not to feed or touch these animals.
In the event of an emergency or animal welfare issue, please contact 01403 256890 (office hours) or 01403 215100 (out of hours).
Volunteer at Leechpool woods
Horsham Green Gym is a nature conservation group run by volunteers with support from Horsham District Council. The groups meet on Tuesdays and Thursdays at parks and open spaces around the district, including Leechpool and Owlbeech woods.
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