Hocombe Mead
Hocombe Mead is a 400 year old, eight hectare countryside site comprising of beautiful ancient woodland and meadows
Hocombe Mead lies between Hiltingbury Road and Hocombe Road. The ancient woodland and meadows can be found on maps dating back to 1588 and support many special plants, fungi and animals, including Purple Loosestrife and 29 species of butterfly.
The reserve is bordered by residential properties and can be accessed on foot from Hiltingbury Road, Hocombe Drive and the northern end of Ashdown Road.
Hocombe Mead is a natural green space consisting of meadow and woodland habitats, managed to support local wildlife and biodiversity. The site features established footpaths that allow visitors to explore the landscape while minimising environmental impact.
Supporting a variety of native plant species and provides habitat for birds, insects, and small mammals. Seasonal changes influence both the appearance of the site and the wildlife present throughout the year.
Suitable for quiet recreation such as walking, nature observation, and photography. Visitors are encouraged to remain on designated paths and respect the natural environment to help preserve the site for future use.
Declared a Local Nature Reserve in February 2008. In the same year a partnership was set up with The Grasslands Trust using funding from the Heritage Lottery Fund which provided a Community Grasslands Officer for the site.
The aim was to improve visitor access to the site and provide opportunities for the local community to take part in activities there. More details can be found at their site set up as part of the project www.hocombe-mead.org
Hocombe Mead
- 226 Hiltingbury Road, Chandler's Ford, Eastleigh SO53 5NN
Parking
There is no designated parking for Hocombe Mead, but it is possible to park at the shops in Ashdown Road and walk to the Hiltingbury Road entrance.
Accessibility
There is a viewing platform that is accessible by wheelchairs from the Ashdown Road entrance and gives a lovely view of the North Meadow. There are interpretation boards throughout the reserve.