Hatfield Forest National Nature Reserve
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Overview
It has been claimed that no other forest on earth evokes the atmosphere of a medieval hunting forest so completely as the Hatfield Forest NNR. It is home to over 3,500 species of wildlife, and the ancient trees, some of which are over 1,000 years old, provide the perfect habitat for some of the forest’s rarest insects, lichens and fungi. The coppices and pasture are now extremely rare, providing a refuge for beetles and fungi, wildflowers and other insects. Hatfield is renowned for its mistletoe and also its fantastic displays of buttercups in late May. Many species of butterfly can be seen, including the woodland-loving white admiral, painted lady, large tortoiseshell, Essex skipper and purple emperor. Large populations of beetles can be seen on fallen trees around the forest, including stag, rhinoceros and lesser stage beetles. The woodland is home to range of birds such as marsh tits and nightingales. You can also see and hear hawfinch, yellowhammers and green woodpeckers. Birds of prey such as buzzards and sparrowhawks are often seen soaring over the open areas.
About the area
Essex is full of pleasant surprises. It has the largest coastline of any county in England, with its fair share of castles, royal connections and scenic valleys.
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Nearby places to stay
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Nearby places to stay
Phoenix Lodge
Phoenix Lodge is a family-run guest house in the market town of Bishop’s Stortford, a short drive from Stanstead Airport. Away from the flight paths, it’s a quiet spot within walking di...
The PitStop
The PitStop offers four individually styled, Art-deco bedrooms, located at this long established family-run Morgan Motor business. Guests can enjoy a good night's sleep, followed by sel...
Down Hall Hotel & Spa
Nestled within 110 acres of thriving woodland and landscaped gardens on the Hertfordshire–Essex border, Down Hall Hotel, Spa & Estate is a distinguished country house hotel offering a b...
Saracens Head - Great Dunmow
The Saracens Head is a delightful 15th-century inn situated in the charming market town of Great Dunmow. The property has a wealth of original character and traditional English charm. T...
The Cricketers Arms
The Cricketers Arms overlooks the cricket pitch in this charming village which is less than 10 miles from Stansted Airport. The property offers a park and ride option. Bedrooms are indi...
Stable Cottage
Located on a working arable farm, Stable Cottage is a converted Victorian stable, less than ten miles from Stansted Airport. The River Cam is very close, so riverside walks are an optio...
Stable Cottage
Located on a working arable farm, Stable Cottage is a converted Victorian stable, less than ten miles from Stansted Airport. The River Cam is very close, so riverside walks are an optio...
Motts Cottage
Guest accommodation at Motts Cottage is a large, spacious en suite room in a garden annexe, within walking distance of a pub. The ancient Flitch Town of Great Dunmow, with excellent res...
