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Houghton Meadows

Houghton Meadows
Attraction: Nature & Wildlife
Activities: Walking
Admission Charge: Free
Age Range: Ages 11 to 18 years, Ages 5 to 11 years, Under 5's
Area: Houghton - Wyton
Town: St Ives
County: Cambridgeshire
Facilities: Outdoor Activities
Opening Days: Daily
Opening Periods: All Year
Description
A Site of Special Scientific Interest (SSSI) Houghton Meadows is an example of ancient rich grassland.   In medieval time Houghton Meadows was cultivated using the ridge and furrow method and later turned over to grazing. This has resulted in a rich diversity of plant species and its SSSI status.

The best time to visit Houghton Meadows is in May and June, when the wild flowers are at their finest.   Amongst the wild flowers to be seen are Yellow Rattle, Sweet Vernal and the Green-Winged Orchid. The hedgerows bordering the fields are more than 100 years old. The diversity of plants also attract insects (such as the Common Blue and Meadow Brown butterflies) and birds. The stream running through Houghton Meadows, Back Brook, is home to Great Crested Newts and other invertebrates.


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