Hothfield Common

Downs, Moorland in Kent Ashford

England

Hothfield Common

Hothfield Common is a nature reserve located in the county of Kent, England. Situated in the village of Hothfield, it covers an area of approximately 165 hectares (407 acres) and is known for its diverse range of habitats, including downs and moorland.

The common is characterized by its rolling hills, open grasslands, and scattered patches of heathland. It is home to a variety of plant species, with heathers and gorse dominating the landscape. The common is also abundant in wildflowers such as orchids, harebells, and cowslips, which add vibrant colors to the scenery.

The site's diverse habitats support a wide range of wildlife. Bird enthusiasts will find the common particularly appealing, as it is home to several species, including skylarks, meadow pipits, and stonechats. Visitors may also catch a glimpse of kestrels and buzzards soaring above the common, hunting for prey.

Hothfield Common is not only a haven for wildlife but also offers recreational opportunities for visitors. The site has a network of footpaths and bridleways, making it a popular destination for walkers, cyclists, and horse riders. The common also features a picnic area and a children's play area, providing facilities for families to enjoy the outdoors.

Managed by the Kent Wildlife Trust, Hothfield Common is a designated Site of Special Scientific Interest (SSSI), recognizing its importance for conservation. The trust works to maintain and enhance the natural habitats, ensuring the preservation of this unique area for future generations to appreciate and enjoy.

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Hothfield Common Images

Images are sourced within 2km of 51.177378/0.81453192 or Grid Reference TQ9645. Thanks to Geograph Open Source API. All images are credited.

Arable land

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Forstal Farmhouse

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Footpath near Forstal Farm

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Gated footpath

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Thatch

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Eutrophic pond

Eutrophication is an enrichment of a water body by minerals and nutrients that lead to a reduction in water quality, especially a reduction in oxygen content. Although it can be a natural process most modern eutrophication is caused by human activity, especially the use of nitrates and phosphates. A eutrophic water body is characterised by a surface green algal bloom. Wikipedia: Link

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Forstal Farmhouse

Grade II listed.

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Little Chart Forstal

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Forstal Farmhouse

Grade II listed.

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Ram Lane

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Ram Lane

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Coldham Oast

Well converted single round kiln oast house. Ragstone walls. Grade II listed.

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Pavilion, Little Chart Forstal

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The Outlook Cottage

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Forstall Cottages

Listed buildings and structures are officially designated as being of special architectural, historical or cultural significance. There are over half a million listed structures in the United Kingdom, covered by around 375,000 listings. Listed status is more commonly associated with buildings or groups of buildings, however it can cover many other structures, including bridges, headstones, steps, ponds, monuments, walls, phone boxes, wrecks, parks, and heritage sites, and in more recent times a road crossing (Abbey Road) and graffiti art (Banksy 'Spy-booth') have been included. In England and Wales there are three main listing designations; Grade I (2.5%) - exceptional interest, sometimes considered to be internationally important. Grade II* (5.5%) - particularly important buildings of more than special interest. Grade II (92%) - nationally important and of special interest. There are also locally listed structures (at the discretion of local authorities) using A, B and C designations. In Scotland three classifications are also used but the criteria are different. There are around 47,500 Listed buildings. Category A (8%)- generally equivalent to Grade I and II* in England and Wales Category B (51%)- this appears generally to cover the ground of Grade II, recognising national importance. Category C (41%)- buildings of local importance, probably with some overlap with English Grade II. In Northern Ireland the criteria are similar to Scotland, but the classifications are: Grade A (2.3%) Grade B+ (4.7%) Grade B (93%) Read more at Wikipedia Link

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