Last updated:
15th July 2023
Keephatch Nature Reserve
Location Wokingham, RG40 5PH
About Keephatch Nature Reserve
Keephatch Nature Reserve is a 9 hectare local nature reserve in Wokingham, consisting of woodland, a small meadow and two ponds. The woodland that comprises the majority of the site is mainly made up of Oak and Birch, with Horse-chestnut, Sycamore, Norway Maple and Ash.
Outside the main woodland site, and nestled within the surrounding housing estates, are two open ponds (‘Willowherb’ Pond and ‘Little Lake’), supporting margins of Bulrush, Reed Sweet-grass and Branched Bur-reed, and Canadian Waterweed and Rigid Hornwort under the surface of the water.
There is also another small area of woodland running alongside Keephatch Road, known as Keephatch Road Woods.
Parking Facilities
There is no car park for Keephatch Nature Reserve. Neighbouring site, Keephatch Meadows, has a free-to-park car park attached, just 300 metres from the Nature Reserve.
Access is from Diamond Jubilee Way, Binfield Road, Montague Close, or Dyer Road.
Accessibility
Keephatch Nature Reserve has predominantly unsurfaced woodland paths, with a rough-surfaced path around the front edge of the meadow. The site can also become quite muddy during wetter months. Therefore, it may not be suitable for wheelchair users.
Site Considerations
Please help us to keep the site clean, tidy and safe by following these rules:
- Please pick up after your dog and make use of the bins on site, or take it home with you. You can be fined up to £1000 for not picking up after your dog.
- Please keep dogs under control.
- Please take litter home or use the bins provided.
- No fires or BBQs to be had on site.
- No drones or metal detectors to be used on the site.
- No camping/sleeping on site.
Cyclists, please follow the code of conduct:
- Give way to pedestrians and wheelchair users.
- Be courteous and patient with pedestrians and other path users who are moving more slowly than you – shared paths are for sharing, not speeding.
- Slow down as needed when space is limited or if you cannot see clearly ahead.
- Be particularly careful at junctions, bends, entrances onto the path, or any other ‘blind spots’ where people (including children) could appear in front of you without warning.
- Carry a bell and use it or an audible greeting – avoid surprising people.
- However, don’t assume people can see or hear you – remember that many people are hard of hearing or visually impaired.
- In dull and dark weather make sure you have lights so you can be seen.
Please report any issues such as vandalism, fallen trees blocking paths, or damaged furniture to the countryside service on 0118 934 2016, or email countryside@wokingham.gov.uk.
