Hazeley Heath Nature Reserve SSSI

Wide view image of Hazeley Heath with the heather in bloom.

Site information

  • Free parking - In the lay-by opposite Arrow Lane (No height or time restrictions)
  • Hartley Wintney’s central car park - charges apply
  • Surfaced and boardwalk pathways
  • Noticeboard
  • Information boards
  • Viewing point and bench
  • Bins
  • Historical Tank structure

All group-led activities must contact the Education Ranger before they visit the site. Further information on organising educational visits can be found on our Education page. 

Where you'll find it

Google map image of Hazeley HeathBracknell Lane,
Hartley Wintney,
Closest postcode: RG27 8TS

 

View destination on Google Maps

 

What you'll find there

This is one of the largest tracts of lowland heathland in the region where 90% has been lost in the past 100 years. This endangered environment supports an array of plant and animal communities and it is because of this rich biodiversity that it has been notified a Site of Special Scientific Interest (SSSI), by Natural England. It is also part of the Thames Basin Heaths Special Protection Area (SPA) for its heathland birds.

Hazeley Heath is a peaceful and relaxing environment for those wishing to enjoy nature at its best. The southern section of the common is owned and managed by Hart District Council and the northern section is owned by the RSPB.

Dogs must be kept under close control and on paths between March and mid-September due to ground-nesting birds and ideally to heel in the heathland area.

Disabled access is restricted to gravel paths.

Management Plan

Wildlife

Top 10 species found at Hazeley Heath:

The top three of the species found here are protected by European legislation. 

  1. Dartford warbler 
  2. Woodlark 
  3. Nightjar 
  4. Grayling butterfly 
  5. Silver studded blue butterfly 
  6. Woodcock 
  7. Stonechat 
  8. Bog asphodel 
  9. Heath spotted orchid 
  10. Adder

Consultative group 

The consultative group meets quarterly and consists of representatives from the following groups:

  • Hart District Council
  • RSPB
  • Natural England
  • Hartley Wintney Parish Council
  • Mattingley Parish Council
  • Commoners
  • Small landowners
  • Easement holders

News and updates

  • Unfortunately, all activities and events for the time being for 2020 have either been cancelled or postponed during the current pandemic.
  • All volunteering is currently on hold, however if you are interested in helping out with volunteer tasks once they are up and running again, visit the Hart Voluntary Action website or call them on 01252 627070.