High Clear Down Nature Reserve
High Clear Down is a beautiful chalk downland slope, situated in east Wiltshire close to the village of Aldbourne. It is a particularly important downland site as it is the only one in the area where so many plants and animals can be found together. It was for this reason that in 1987 the Trust entered into an agreement with the owner Miss Betty Gentrey to allow the Down to become a Nature Reserve. Then in 1998, with funding from National Power, the Trust was able to purchase the Reserve to secure its future.
The Reserve does not have any set footpaths, but visitors are welcome to wander freely over the slope which offers superb views of the surrounding area. It is easier walking along the bottom of the slope. There is an interpretation board giving information about the Reserve, near the entrance.
Wildlife
Many of the plants found growing on High Clear Down are uncommon, but there is one particular flower that is very important, the Early Gentian (Gentianella anglica). It is a small plant with a purple trumpet shaped flower which blooms during May and June, and is one of a small number of plants that is unique to Britain and grows nowhere else in the world. Wiltshire is one of a few counties that provide a stronghold for it. Other plants include Common Spotted Orchid (Dactylorhiza fuchsii), Pyramidal Orchid (Anacamptis pyramidalis), Fragrant Orchid (Gymnadenia conopsea), Common Rock Rose (Helianthemum nummularium) and Fairy Flax (Linum catharticum).
These plants provide food for many butterflies which are mainly active during late spring and summer. Look out for the Green Hairstreak (Callophrys rubi), Chalkhill Blue (Lysandra coridon), Marbled White (Melanargia galathea) , Duke of Burgundy Fritillary (Hamearis lucina) and Brown Argus (Aricia agestis). The Reserve is also home to some day-flying moths including the Cistus Forester (Adscita geryon), Wood Tiger (Parasemia plantaginis) and different Burnet moths.
History and management
Whilst much of the surrounding land has been ploughed to grow crops, or lost due to the application of fertilisers, the way the Down has been managed has ensured its survival. For this we must thank its former owners.
In order for the plants to survive the Down must be grazed. This controls the rank fast growing grasses and shrubs such as Blackthorn (Prunus spinosa), which can spread quickly, can be controlled. Grazing with cattle between April and October is the best way to do this.
Other Information
Dogs are allowed, but must be on a short leash at all times of year due to grazing animals.
Best time to visit: Late spring and summer
Habitat: Chalk downland
Specialities of the reserve: Early Gentian, Fragrant Orchid, Dingy Skipper, Chalkhill Blue and Cistus Forester
Location: South east of Swindon, near the village of Aldbourne. From Aldbourne proceed along B41292 towards Swindon for 0.75 miles. On reaching barn on left hand side of road, turn left and walk along track (byway). Take left fork, signed to Snap and Ridgeway. Reserve entrance (kissing gate) reached after 1.5 mile walk along rough tracks, at grid reference SU235765. Not suitable for wheelchairs.
