About the reserve

You don’t have to range far from Guildford to discover fine examples of one of Surrey’s most precious habitats. Part of the Worplesdon group of commons, Whitmoor and Rickford Commons combine iconic heathland with patches of pine, Birch, Oak, Holly and Hazel woodland. Around the wetter areas there is a mix of heath and willow trees, with an area of Alder carr.

The ponds were originally dug to let grazing stock drink. Now they are wildlife havens. 19 species of dragonfly, including the Emperor Dragonfly, have been recorded in or around the largest pond.

Whitmoor is well worth a visit at any time of year. In spring, you will see bright yellow Lesser Celandines along the banks of the stream. Willow and Hazel catkins appear before the trees get their leaves. The pale yellow Brimstone is usually the first butterfly of the year.

By summer, the heathland flowers are at their best. Look out for the three types of heather – Ling, Bell and Cross-leaved Heath, as well as the carnivorous Round-leaved Sundew. In the evening you may see bats and, if you’re lucky, hear Dartford Warblers and the churring call of the Nightjar.

In autumn, hazelnuts and acorns ripen, providing a feast for Wood Mice and other animals. Look for flocks of Siskins, Redpolls and Goldfinches on the seed-heads of thistles. And when winter comes, the bare trees make it easier to spot woodpeckers, Robins, Wrens and other woodland birds.

Self guided-trails

There are four self-guided trails at Worplesdon Commons, the Nightjar, Dragonfly, Acorn and Newt trails. Take a photo of the information board in the car park before setting off and follow the colour coded routes and signposts along the way.

Car Parks

Saltbox Road car park and Britten's Pond car park can be found off Salt Box Road.

More site info from SCC