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The Heathland at Simons Wood, Finchampstead Ridges, Surrey
Take in beautiful countryside and heathland | © National Trust Images/Charlotte Franks
Surrey

Simon's Wood trail

An area of wet woodlands and lowland heath providing an increasingly rare habitat which supports life for many birds and invertebrates. On this walk, you can explore the views, flora and fauna of the broadleaved and coniferous woodlands, the naturally created Heath Pond, and the rare delights of a heathland habitat.

Total steps: 12

Total steps: 12

Start point

Simon's Wood car park, Wokingham, Berkshire RG45 6AE

Step 1

From the car park, enter the woods through the access between the welcome board and leaflet stand. Follow the naturally formed path through the sweet chestnut trees.

Step 2

Walk straight across the track to the path opposite.

Step 3

Where the path forks, follow the arrow sign.

Step 4

At the next track, turn left. You're now walking on the old Devils Highway, the Roman road that once ran between London and Silchester.

Step 5

You're now at Heath Pool. Walk over the surface drain, and turn right into the woodland.

Step 6

Continue left over the boardwalk. Please keep your dogs on a lead around the heathland as disturbance can affect the cycle of the birds that breed here.

Step 7

At the track, turn left, back onto the old Devils Highway.

Step 8

Turn right at the sign. You're now walking through a mix of broadleaved and coniferous woodland. Watch your step as it can get boggy here.

Step 9

Follow the arrows and boardwalks through the woodlands.

Step 10

You're now in another area of heathland.

Step 11

Cross the track – taking a quick right then left – and continue through the woodland.

Step 12

Cross another track, follow the arrow and continue past the sweet chestnut trees back to the car park.

End point

Simon's Wood car park, Wokingham, Berkshire RG45 6AE

Trail map

Simon's Wood walk route map
Simon's Wood walk route map | © Crown copyright and database rights 2013 Ordnance Survey

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