Raveley Wood

Raveley Wood is a 5.6-hectare nature reserve south-west of Upwood in Cambridgeshire. It lies east of the village of Great Raveley and is managed by the Wildlife Trust for Bedfordshire, Cambridgeshire and Northamptonshire. The wood contains oak, ash and field maple, together with some elms. Dutch elm disease has killed many elms, but their dead wood supports a wide variety of fungi. Invertebrates include the rare white-spotted pinion moth, whose larvae feed on elms. White-letter hairstreak butterflies also live here. The reserve is worth the journey for its rare species and specialised habitats. The white-spotted pinion moth depends on elms for food, and the dead elms provide a habitat for fungi. White-letter hairstreak butterflies are also present. The wood’s invertebrate interest is recognised nationally. The Wildlife Trust manages the site to protect these species and their habitats. Access is straightforward from Raveley Road, which runs west from Great Raveley. A visitor finds a quiet woodland with a mix of living and dead trees. Paths lead through the wood, allowing close views of the trees and fungi. The rare white-spotted pinion moth and white-letter hairstreak butterflies may be seen. The wood’s invertebrate interest makes it a special place for nature. The dead elms provide a habitat for a wide variety of fungi. The reserve is a peaceful spot for a walk among the trees.