Reserve profile
Gillham Wood is a small oasis of woodland in Cooden, just west of Bexhill, a remnant of a once larger wooded area. Today, it is a valuable community asset within a residential area, much loved by locals for informal recreation and dog walking.
The wood is dominated by Oak, with a Hazel, Birch and Holly understorey and a ground flora of Bluebells, Wood Anemone and Bramble. An old bomb crater in the woods provides water for a range of wildlife. Surrounded by gardens it is an oasis for woodland birds, which are most obvious during their breeding season when the males are singing. The woodland is divided in two by the main ride. The main part of the wood has a network of paths so everyone can enjoy the wood, and the other side is kept as a sanctuary for wildlife with no disturbance from humans. It is in this area the Foxes have their den. The main ride provides open sunny conditions perfect for butterflies to enjoy the nectar sources from Bramble flowers.
The nature reserve is managed in conjunction with Rother District Council and the Friends of Gillham Wood – a group of locals that help look after the day to day management of the woods.