Kilminorth Wood is the largest area of western oak woodland in this part of the region and is typical of the valley side woodlands that form the familiar wooded backdrop to the south coast of Cornwall. Running along the West Looe River valley, the wood is classified as ancient woodland, having been wooded since, at least 1600AD. Ancient woodland is often refered to as the UK's equivalent of the rainforest - a rare and depleted landscape. Which is why the Friends of Kilminorth Woods believe it is important to protect this site for the benefit of the wildlife that lives there and the people that enjoy it as a local nature reserve.
While there are no individual trees that can be classified as 'ancient', many trees are well over a hundred years old, including oak trees and some beech trees near the bridleway. The wood is predominantly sessile or western oak. There is evidence of coppicing in the past. There are also sycamore, rowan, holly and other trees in evidence. As you would expect, there is an abundance of wildlife here. Roe deer, foxes and badgers can be seen in the woods as well as a wide range of plantlife, birds and insects, including some rare moths and ferns.
Close to the town but far from the bustle, this nature reserve is a great place to go walking. Its paths offering fantastic scenic views of the West Looe Valley. Home to an ancient monument, the 'Giant's Hedge', and former site of a busy boatyard, Kilminorth Woods has lots to interest the regular or occasional visitor. The woods run alongside the West Looe River, which is a great place to see waders and wildfowl such as curlew, redshank, shelduck, oystercatchers, heron and even kingfishers can be seen zipping up and down the river.
About Kilminorth Woods