About the reserve

Nestled between Addington Hills and Littleheath Wood is this enchanting oak woodland, with supporting relic heathland and acid grassland communities. Trees here include birch, oak and ash, with springtime displays of bluebell and dog violet. Bramley Bank also boasts the largest woodland pond in Croydon, which is of special wildlife value. The acid grassland clearing supports a range of bird, butterfly and flower species. The reserve has been managed on behalf of Croydon Council since 1986.

History of Bramley Bank

The woodland here now has grown after the 1930s, but species indicative of ancient woodland are present. The boundary of Bramley Bank remains the same as it did in 1890. The area was then more like open parkland and formed part of the Heathfield Estate, owned by the Riesco family. Many of the Austrian pines, sweet chestnut and beech trees had by then been planted and the pond dug.

Management of Bramley Bank

We are cutting and clearing invading scrub to protect the lowland heath and acid grassland, in addition to undertaking more selective heathland restoration works by harvesting heather brash and seeds from neighbouring heathland sites for sowing on our reserve. Remnant cherry laurel characteristic of the site’s historic associations is being cleared, along with sycamore encroachment from the woodland understory.  

Status of Bramley Bank

Site of Borough Importance for Nature Conservation; Local Nature Reserve; Metropolitan Green Belt

Get involved at Bramley Bank   

Volunteer with Braeburn Park's team 

We hold occasional practical conservation volunteering sessions at Bramley Bank. To find out about our next session, call Simon 07772 821134 or email shawkins@wildlondon.org.uk

Record your sightings

Record species you've spotted at Bramley Bank