Portholme Meadow Nature Walk

We will walk from the car park opposite Huntingdon bus station and then around the site to look at the vegetation and features related to the history and management of Portholme meadow, the largest water meadow in England. With an area of 104ha, it represents 7% of the total UK lowland unimproved hay meadows. It supports a rich flora and is a haven for several less common breeding birds in summer (e.g. corn bunting and skylark) now absence from much of the more intensively farmed Cambridgeshire landscape. It also supports large populations of ducks, waders and gulls when flooded in winter. It is a Site of Special Scientific Interest and recognised internationally as a Special Area of Conservation under the European Union ‘Habitats’ Directive.

It was a racecourse and a site for some of the earliest aeroplane flights some 100 years ago. However, its potential for irregular and unexpected flooding has largely protected it from uses that are more intensive. Its conservation value depends on the continuation of a traditional haymaking and grazing management regime, as well as regular flooding. During the war, part of the site was ploughed and reseeded as part of an experiment to ‘improve’ the hay crop and grazing.

The walk will be about 2 miles, the terrain is flat. Allow 2hours, although we can make it shorter. There might be biting insects so bring repellent and suntan cream.

Wear stout footwear as it may be quite muddy. As it is a National Nature Reserve dogs are not allowed. Not suitable for wheelchairs.

Meet at Mill Common Car Park (opposite Huntingdon Bus Station) at 7pm; What3words – ///acting.pebble.frown