Friends of Ashenground and Bolnore Woods
Friends of Ashenground and Bolnore Woods is made up of local people including walkers, nature lovers, dog owners and family groups interested in caring for the woods.
We are volunteers who work together to protect our Local Nature Reserve (LNR) which is owned by Mid Sussex District Council (MSDC). We coordinate our activities via a seasonal ecological plan with reference to information from the Sussex Wildlife Trust (SWT), The Woodland Trust (WLT) and The Lost Woods Team.
The group organises a regular program of volunteer mornings, every third Saturday of the month, plus nature walks and special interest events such as bug and wildflower finds, bat and fungi walks. We also have seasonal art classes and additional special events such as an artisan woodland craft walk in the summer of 2026.
We monitor the influences of development in the surrounding area, and encourage responsible use of the public access to this beautiful ancient woodland.
Flora and fauna surveys are carried out to monitor any changes in species over time.
The ancient woodland is enriched by limiting the encroachment of invasive species and encouraging native flora as well as pollinator habitats. Access paths are kept clear and well defined.
As a vital part of our aims, events to learn and connect with local nature within the woods are shared for free.
There are also links with local schools as well as other nature organisations
Volunteer sessions involve work in the woodland, including coppicing, pruning, scything and mowing as well as general tasks such as litter picking.
Regular newsletters are produced and contributions from members are always welcome, why not join as a volunteer, a member or both!