Nature is left to its own devices here, with the life cycle of alder and birch trees providing a humus rich base along the stream, creating conditions conducive to the elegant royal fern Osmunda regalis and the twayblade Listera ovata.

The yellow flag iris and Latraea clandestina lend added interest to this otherwise green and shady woodland.

The spotted woodpecker makes nests in the dead and dying trees, whilst wild boar and roe deer take pleasure in the muddy pools.

The east end of the valley is characterised by the last of our old coppiced sweet chestnut trees, remnants of a fascinating past.