Parking at the lay-by next to the entrance, it only takes a few steps to reach sun-dappled rides that burst with spectacular spring-time displays of bluebell, pignut and early-purple orchid. Those looking carefully in the shadier areas can also spot violet helleborine, woodruff and herb-paris.
The nectar-rich plants support a wide range of butterfly – 15 species have been recorded on the reserve – including brimstone, speckled wood and purple hairstreak, whose caterpillars feed on oak.
Yet despite the obvious floral splendour of woodland in spring, many of Groton’s treasures can be found throughout the year.
As well as the many grand old cherry trees, the reserve is noted for its beautiful and rare coppices of small-leaved lime, an indication that the northern part of the wood has existed since prehistoric times. And, standing under the coppice’s distinctive buff-coloured boughs it is hard not to feel a connection with the previous generations that have worked and walked here, who touched the same smooth bark and heard the same winds knocking through the trees.
Groton Wood is also unusual in that is has 22 seasonal ponds. These are good places to spot frog, toad and newt, including the highly protected great crested newt.
With many of the ponds fringed by deep cover, they are also a perfect spot for watching the wood’s many birds, which range from the summer songsters of black cap, willow warbler and chiff chaff to resident woodcock, nuthatch and all three species of woodpecker.
The circular route around Groton only takes about 25-30 minutes but be prepared to lose yourself for much longer.