Ruggins Covert

Wood, Forest in Surrey Waverley

England

Ruggins Covert

Cricket Ground at Ewhurst Green Credit: Chris Thomas-Atkin

Ruggins Covert is a picturesque woodland area located in Surrey, England. Situated within the larger Surrey Hills Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty, it is a popular destination for nature enthusiasts, hikers, and those seeking tranquility amidst the lush greenery.

Covering an area of approximately 200 acres, Ruggins Covert is characterized by its dense canopy of trees, predominantly consisting of oak, beech, and birch. The woodland floor is adorned with a variety of wildflowers, ferns, and mosses, creating a vibrant and diverse ecosystem. The enchanting atmosphere is further enhanced by the presence of a small stream that meanders through the woodland, adding to its natural charm.

The woodland provides a haven for a wide range of wildlife. Visitors may be fortunate enough to spot deer, squirrels, rabbits, and a multitude of bird species, including woodpeckers and owls. The diverse habitat also attracts an array of insects, such as butterflies and dragonflies, which can be observed fluttering through the sun-dappled glades.

Ruggins Covert offers a network of well-maintained footpaths and trails, enabling visitors to explore the woodland at their leisure. These pathways guide visitors through different sections of the woodland, showcasing its varied landscapes and providing opportunities for peaceful walks and picnics.

Managed by a local conservation trust, Ruggins Covert is committed to preserving its natural beauty and promoting biodiversity. Regular educational events and guided walks are organized to raise awareness about the importance of woodland conservation and to encourage visitors to appreciate and protect this precious natural resource.

In summary, Ruggins Covert is a stunning woodland retreat in Surrey, offering a tranquil escape from the hustle and bustle of everyday life. Its rich biodiversity, well-maintained trails, and commitment to conservation make it a cherished destination for nature lovers and a valuable asset to the local community.

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Ruggins Covert Images

Images are sourced within 2km of 51.147372/-0.41691378 or Grid Reference TQ1039. Thanks to Geograph Open Source API. All images are credited.

Cricket Ground at Ewhurst Green

Chris Thomas-Atkin

Approaching Somersbury Lane

On The Green (lane) nearing the junction with Somersbury Lane leaving to the right. Beyond the junction it becomes Horsham Lane.

Chris Thomas-Atkin

Larkfield Pond

A very well kept looking pond in Ewhurst

Chris Thomas-Atkin

Pond near Ewhurst Cricket Ground

In an earlier Geograph photo the pond was overgrown but it now seems to be cleared and being maintained.

Chris Thomas-Atkin

Barn at Rumbeams Farm

Rumbeams Farm is at Ewhurst Green and is visible from the passing road ‘The Green’.

Chris Thomas-Atkin

Path leaving Somersbury Lane

The public footpath leaves the lane at a corner and heads along a ridgeway to Longhurst Hill.

Chris Thomas-Atkin

House by the entrance to Coxland

The house is possibly a former Lodge at the entrance to Coxland from Somersbury Lane.

Chris Thomas-Atkin

Entrance to Somersbury Manor

The impressive gated entrance to Somersbury Manor. The Manor House is a Grade II listed building.

Chris Thomas-Atkin

Somersbury Cottage

The cottage near Somersbury Manor viewed from Somersbury Lane.

Chris Thomas-Atkin

Approaching Ewhurst

On the public footpath from Slythehurst nearing the edge of Ewhurst.

Chris Thomas-Atkin

Old barn at Ewhurst

To be found a short distance to the east of Ewhurst church. Rather oddly, it stands in the grounds of the Old Rectory (now a care home), with no other farm buildings nearby. Much of the surrounding area is now residential - 20th century development, for the most part. I'd guess that (with such huge doors) this was once a threshing barn. The framing seems very regular and symmetrical - apparently all of one build. I was going to suggest a Victorian date, but have since found a listing: Link

My guess would be that most of what can be seen externally dates from the 20th-century restoration.

Stefan Czapski

Ewhurst church from the north-east

Stefan Czapski

Grave-board under a yew tree, Ewhurst churchyard

Wooden grave-boards are not uncommon in Surrey, and I've seen them elsewhere in the Home Counties (for instance, at Baldock). But more often than not what you find are heavily restored boards - or frank replacements (as at Mickleham). I hadn't explored this churchyard before and it came as a surprise to find a number of 'original' unrestored boards - albeit in various stages of decrepitude. The inscriptions they once carried had weathered away without trace - as they would do, inevitably, if not repainted every few years. This one, under its yew tree, was one of the more complete examples - sufficiently complete to give a fair idea as to original design and construction. I can't claim to know anything of the history of grave-boards, but here in the Weald where timber was abundant (and local stone scarce) their use could stretch back many centuries, poorly documented. The lack of suitable local stone means that cast-iron grave-markers, too, are fairly common in Surrey and Sussex.

Stefan Czapski

18th-century headstone, Ewhurst churchyard: David Tidy, yeoman

A good number of 18th-century headstones have survived in this churchyard. This one, dated 1762, stands with other old stones in the south-eastern part of the yard. To my eye this stone is an unusually fine piece of work. The design is restrained - no mourning angels,no trumpets, no skulls or cross-bones (common in the mid-18th century) - it makes its impact by the use of finely executed lettering alone. The inscription reads: IN MEMORY of DAVID TIDY Late of this Parish Yeoman who departed this Life August the 27th 1762 in the 53d Year of his Age There is no riot of lettering styles (as became the norm 50 years later): only the words 'Year' and 'Age' are given fancy copper-plate treatment.

Stefan Czapski