Introduction: This compact and diverse Local Nature Reserve consists of a woodland and wet meadow, right in the heart of the charming Kentish town of Cranbrook. The meadow is probably the site of a former mill pond for Cranbrook's clothmaking industry.
Location: Immediately south of the main shopping street in Cranbrook.
What can I do? Explore the small, mixed woodland and wander the boardwalks in the central marsh area of fen vegetation. Crane Valley LNR is so close to the town centre that it is well used by residents on their way to and from the high street shops.
What can I see? Look out for the locally uncommon large bittercress in the streamside vegetation and abundant ragged robin in the spring-time meadow. Rare species found on site include the long-horn bee and, aptly, a crane fly species. The stream is home to a fish called the stone loach, indicative of non-polluted water.
What can I hear? The sounds of the birdlife frequenting the site, against the backdrop of the high street's trade.
Grid reference: TQ774357(OS Map)
OS Map: 136 (Explorer, 1:25,000)
Opening times: Open all year
Prices: Free
Nearest train station: Staplehurst 5.6 miles
Nearest NCN route: Route 18, 0.8 miles south on Swattenden Lane
Where can I park? Nearby carpark
Where can I get further information? Please go to the Kent High Weald Partnership website