Field Trip – Magdalen Hill Down – Chalk Downland Butterflies & Flora

Magdalen Hill Down – Chalk Downland Butterflies & Flora

PLEASE NOTE – you must pre-register with Anna for this walk and provide contact details in case of late cancellation.

Magdalen Hill Down, on a steep south-facing slope near Winchester is now one of Butterfly Conservation’s premier reserves. Previously arable with steeper floristically rich slopes deteriorating to scrub, Butterfly Conservation has systematically restored the site into species rich chalk grassland. The original reserve was extended twice (mid-1995 and 2004) by taking on large neighbouring areas of arable land and these have been converted to meadow by sowing with grass and flower seed from other Hampshire sites.

Meet point: 10.30 am at the top of the entrance track SU 5108 2919 where Fiona Scully, Reserves Manager will welcome us.

The original reserve is steep and can be slippery, care should be taken. The main North entrance is the track adjacent to Magdalen Hill Cemetery at
Grid Ref: SU 5110 2943
What3Words: spells.skim.owners
Alresford Rd, Winchester, SO21 1HE

Arriving by car: The reserve lies between the A31 and B3404 just outside the eastern edge of Winchester. From the M3, traveling from the north, use exit 9, traveling from the south, use exit 10. A small gravel car park is across the B3404 from the track. Care should be taken when crossing the road Additional parking can be found in the Cemetery which also has a toilet. Public transport: Number 64 Alton-Winchester bus stops by the Magdalen Hill Cemetery gates

Grid Ref: SU 5108 2919
What3Words: hogs.unheated.drip

Leader: Anna & Dave Stewart anna@stgileshill.com | Mobile No. 07920113131
You must pre-register with Anna for this walk and provide contact details in case of late cancellation.