Launde Big Wood

Launde Big Wood occupies the western half of Launde Woods and is one of the largest and most significant semi natural ancient woodland in the East Midlands. Walking beneath the canopy of ancient trees, you will feel a deep sense of tranquility. The forest floor supports a rich variety of plants, with species such as Wood Forget-me-not, Wood Anemone, and Sweet Woodruff.

Location

Launde Big Wood, Launde Rd, Leicester

LE7 9XB

OS Map Reference

SK 788035

View on What3Words

movie.nutty.carbon

Know before you go

Size

42 hectares

Entry fee

Free

Parking information

Park on the grass verges of the road at the top of the gravel track that leads to the woods. Please be very careful not to block any gateways - access is needed for farm vehicles at all times. what3words: ///motorist.grounding.jumbo

Access

The reserves are situated between Launde and Loddington, in east Leicestershire. On the road between Tilton on the Hill and Oakham, take any of several roads signposted to Launde. Continue through Launde park with the Abbey on your left, to the top of the hill and pass over the cattle grid.

Continue for approximately 300m to a crossroads with two tracks. The public footpath signposted to the right leads to Launde Big Wood. It is approximately a 10 minute walk along the gravel track to the wood entrance.

Stout outdoor footwear or wellies are always recommended.

Dogs

No dogs permitted

With the exception of assistance dogs only.

When to visit

Opening times

Always open

Best time to visit

Spring

About the reserve

Launde Big Wood is one of the largest and most important semi-natural ancient woodland in the East Midlands. It is situated on a hilltop, with superb vistas of the surrounding countryside – a walk to admire the view is a must.

Beneath the canopies of Oak, Ash, Hazel, and Field Maple, you’ll see amazing displays of wildflowers in the spring. Wood Anemone, Bluebell, Wood Forget-me-not, Sweet Woodruff, Early Purple Orchid and Primrose are just a few of the more noticeable species, you can even spend some time searching for the elusive Herb Paris.

Badgers have excavated at least two setts, so keep an eye out for their tracks, paw prints and latrines. Other mammals include Stoat and Weasel. The Nuthatch can be heard singing in the spring, and Purple and White-letter Hairstreak butterflies will make the most of the dappled glades. Don't forget to look up and search for Purple Emperor butterflies in the treetops.