Ranscombe Farm

Ranscombe Farm is a Plantlife Nature Reserve and working farm in Cuxton, Kent. Part of the site lies within the Cobham Woods Site of Special Scientific Interest, and the whole farm sits inside the Kent Downs Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty. The reserve partners with five nearby sites including Shorne Woods Country Park and Jeskyns. It has been a source for flower collectors since the 17th century. Nationally rare plants like Hairy Mallow and Meadow Clary were first gathered here in 1699 and 1792.

The farm protects rare arable flora and chalk grassland species. Notable plants include Ground Pine, Broad-leaved Cudweed and six orchid species such as Lady Orchid, known locally as the Fair Maidens of Kent. Chalk grassland hosts Wild Liquorice and Horseshoe Vetch. Arable areas support Corncockle, Blue Pimpernel and Night-flowering Catchfly. The reserve’s chalk grassland and arable fields create a rich mix of habitats.

Visitors walk the North Downs Way which crosses the reserve. In April bluebells and early purple orchids appear. May brings Lady, Fly and Man Orchids into flower. By June Meadow Clary, Hairy Mallow and Ground Pine bloom. July shows Corncockle, Clustered Bellflower and four poppy species. The chalk grassland and arable fields offer changing displays through the seasons.