22nd February 2025

I made a long overdue visit to Monkton Nature Reserve today. It really is a gem of a place. Created nearly 45 years ago from a former chalkpit, it is now a thriving nature reserve and education centre. The hard work and enthusiasm of the volunteers over the years shows and the infrastructure there is quite exceptional for a relatively small site. School parties can be entertained in the education room, the museum collection is fascinating, a comprehensive second-hand bookshop and a lovely little cafe. As well as the nature trails, there are outside seating and viewing areas. Although rather quiet today, this is clearly a thriving wildlife area, given it is surrounded by intesively farmed land. Areas of the reserve have been managed as chalk grassland and these boast up to 13 orchid species in the season. Clearly an oasis of biodiversity. Very child friendly and well worth a visit. I will certainly be going back in summer.