Puttenham Common Nature Reserve
Puttenham Common is all that remains of what was once a large area of lowland heath. Heathland shrubs such as ling, bell heather, and gorse remain in the more open areas.
The site is dominated by silver birch, bracken, and wavy hair grass. Oak and Scots Pine are also in abundance. There are two ponds with associated wetland and carr areas, and they contain a good range of aquatic plants and invertebrates.
Puttenham Common is of high archaeological interest. Substantial finds have been recorded from every period except Saxon. The main feature is the Hill Fort at Hillbury which is a Scheduled Ancient Monument, probably dating back to the Iron Age, but with greater evidence of occupation during Roman times.
The site was extensively used by the military during World War 2 with evidence including slit trenches and rifle range butts – a searchlight was situated in what is now the middle car park.
There are a number of public rights of way and there are car parks and picnic areas available for visitors to the site.
HighlightsThe bird include healthy populations of great crested grebes, green woodpecker, and grey heron. It appears that Nightjars seem to have disappeared from the site in recent years. | LocationPuttenham Common lies about 2 miles south west of Puttenham village. There are 2 car parks either side of the lake. Leave the A3 at Shackleford and head west for 2 miles. |
These maps are intended as a guideline only; you must check the exact location of the reserve yourself. Wildlife Extra assumes no responsibility for the accuracy or usefulness of the information on this website.
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