Situated on Shoreham Road, Henfield, Woods Mill Nature Reserve first opened its doors to the public on the 8th of June 1968 and hasn’t looked back since. Once an important flour mill that has stood since the Norman conquest, it has been transformed into a reserve which is home to Barn owls, great spotted woodpeckers, kingfishers, nightingales, dragonflies and brown trout to name but a few, making it an excellent day out for any animal lovers. As part of the Sussex Wildlife Trust, who are described in their own words as a “conservation charity for everyone who cares about nature in Sussex”, the reserve is cared for alongside thirty others across Sussex. Scenery includes ponds, lakes and other waterways, ancient woodland, unimproved meadows and hedgerows, all spaced across an enormous 47 acre site. There is also a strong element of history surrounding the reserve. Visitors are still able to see the old Victorian waterwheel and the house where the miller would have lived. Additionally, mysterious ancient carved stones in the surrounding woodland add an air of historical intrigue.

Woods Mill offers guided walks and events throughout the year for children and adults alike so it makes a great day out for anyone interested in developing their knowledge of nature. Moreover, full classroom facilities allow the reserve to accommodate classes of children so it would make a perfect school trip.

In June 2018 Woods Mill celebrated their 50th anniversary as a wildlife trust and have marked the occasion with a range of events that are continuing in to 2019.

Sponsored by the Scottish Power Foundation, the 50th year anniversary events include a programme of wildlife talks, walks and training events, allowing people to get more in touch with their wild side. Events in the New Year include an egg hunt, a spring wildflower identification and a winter walk, not forgetting the ever popular pond dipping at the special dipping pond.

Another great addition for the anniversary celebrations is the new Kestrel Camera. Although kestrels have nested at Woods Mill for 3-4 years, the Scottish Power Foundation have paid for a camera to be placed in the Kestrel nesting box, meaning the public can view the kestrels at any time on the live webcam.

So if you’re looking for a great day out but don’t know what to do, why not try a visit to Woods Mill and experience something new today.