Wellesley Woodlands

About Wellesley Woodlands

Wellesley Woodlands is a large and diverse natural space covering 110 hectares, offering a rich mix of habitats and landscapes to explore.

The site forms a continuous green corridor, with:

• Duke’s Wood to the west
• Lakes and canal‑side areas to the east
• Smaller woodlands at Thorn Hill and Heather Hill to the south

This creates a beautiful and accessible network of green space, ideal for walking, wildlife spotting, and relaxation.

Habitats and wildlife

Wellesley Woodlands supports a wide variety of habitats, including:

• Woodland, grassland, and heathland
• Wetlands, lakes, and ponds
• Canal‑side environments along the Basingstoke Canal

The site includes areas designated as Sites of Importance for Nature Conservation (SINC), recognising their ecological value.

Woodlands are mainly made up of oak, birch, and beech, with additional species such as Scots pine, willow, and alder. Open rides and glades provide valuable spaces for wildlife, alongside water features throughout the site.

Enhancements to support biodiversity include:

• Stag beetle habitats (stumperies)
• Bat boxes and hibernation spaces

Access and exploring

A network of footpaths and canal‑side towpaths runs across the site, making it easy to explore different areas and enjoy the landscape.

Whether you’re looking for a short walk or a longer route, there are plenty of options to suit all abilities.

Green Angels at Wellesley Woodlands

Wellesley Woodlands offers a fantastic setting for Green Angels activities and training.

Courses may include opportunities such as:

• Wildlife identification and surveying
• Practical conservation work
• Learning about habitats and species

For example, Green Angels has delivered a Reptile Identification and Surveying course at this site in partnership with Amphibian and Reptile Conservation (ARC).