Loder Valley Nature Reserve

Two years ago, we closed the Loder Valley Nature Reserve as part of a vital conservation effort against ash dieback. We've since removed trees that posed a risk and have reopened a dedicated 3.7km path, taking in meadows and woodlands teeming with wildlife.

How we're tackling ash dieback

Nature trail

Our newly opened 3.7km route takes around 1 hour to walk, but you'll want to stop and rest at one of the three hides along the route.

Pick up a trail guide and map from the Visitor Centre on arrival to the gardens to help discover the Loder Valley for yourself.

To visit Hanging Meadow, an area of ancient grassland that shimmers with wonderful wildflowers and rich insect life in spring and summer, go over the bridge on your right shortly after the entrance.

Or, carry on through the native woodland, an ancient ecosystem where you'll spot signs of traditional landscape management such as coppicing.

Take in the impressive views as you walk, keeping your eyes peeled for the fantastic wildlife.

The undergrowth of brambles and hazels in the woodland provides dense cover and food for the native hazel dormouse. You might spot one of the 300 dormouse nesting boxes in the reserve, monitored by our team as part of our support for the National Dormouse Monitoring Programme.

A code is needed to access the Loder Valley Nature Reserve. Please ask at the Visitor Centre on arrival. To note the code will change regularly so please check on each visit.

Loder Valley trail map

Several trees standing next to a large lake — Loder Valley at Wakehurst, James Ratchford © RBG Kew

A trio of bird fly over a lake flanked by forest — Loder Valley at Wakehurst, James Ratchford © RBG Kew

Bird watching, Loder Valley Nature Reserve, Jim Holden

Resting dormice in the Loder Valley Nature Reserve — Dormice, Steve Robinson ©RBG Kew

Visiting the reserve

Sensible shoes should be worn – and a pair of binoculars and a camera would be a good addition for your visit. Photography here must be for personal use only.

Please be respectful to all wildlife you encounter. It is an offence to knowingly disturb kingfishers close to their nests during breeding season.

The reserve is open to all, however, because of some hilly terrain, it’s not suitable for wheelchairs.

Only assistance dogs are welcome in the reserve. If you are bringing your four-legged friend to Wakehurst, please take a look at our Dog Walking at Wakehurst page to explore the dedicated dog route.

Once you are in the reserve, the new trail, including Hanging Meadow, is about 3.7 km (2.2 miles)