Overhall Grove

Overhall Grove Huntingdon  is the largest elm woodland in Cambridgeshire. Having been badly affected by Dutch elm disease, many have regenerated from the base and the mixture of dead wood and new growth is excellent habitat for insects and birds.

In spring, the wood is full of songbirds such as willow and garden warblers and song thrushes, whilst the ground is carpeted in bluebells and oxlips. The wood also contains some very large oak and ash trees. There are 35 oaks with wide spreading crowns, 250 to over 300 years old.

The remains of a mediaeval manor surrounded by a moat can still be seen in the northern end of the wood, which is now home to a family of badgers. Their digging has unearthed shards of pottery, which date the manor back to the 11th to 15th centuries.

The best time to visit is during spring and summer to see the profusion of flowers and birds.

DIRECTIONS :  Cambridge 9 miles. From A428 between Cambridge and St Neots, turn off north into Knapwell. Park in the village and walk down lane past church on north side of village.