Wildlife Walks

The history of SOUTH ELMHAM HALL can be best appreciated by walking the farm on our marked paths - most of which now have kissing gates, replacing styles
Five different routes of varying length can be easily followed with the help of the Wildlife Walks map.

Further new routes are now available for dog walkers avoiding meadows where livestock are present.

Spring

Spring has just about arrived at South Elmham, although it has taken its time this year. The first ducklings are out on the moat and the hedges turning green and full of birdsong.

We have at last turned the cattle out on to the meadows so please be sure to shut gates while walking around the farm.

HORNBEAMS

The surviving trees and meadows of the medieval deer park feature on most of the routes. There are some superb oaks and beeches, many of a great age, and 500-year-old pollarded hornbeams. Last winter local tree surgeon Paul Jackson has been working on these wonderful old trees to preserve their shape, character and long lives.

CATTLE

Also rarities are our British White cattle, an ancient breed traditionally kept in parks or by religious orders. Winners of many show prizes over the years they can be seen grazing some of the meadows together with our brown Simmental cows.

AWARD WINNING

Our award winning policy of replanting hedgerows has added to the cover required by many species of birds. Field margins are sown with rough grasses to encourage invertebrates and small mammals. Areas of woodland are planted each year with traditional native species.

For the last two years we have planted areas of pollen and nectar mix to attract and feed insects particularly butterflies and bumble bees. Other areas have been planted with plants to feed the birds through the winter. So if you see what looks like a strange crop in a field corner or edge it serves a special purpose.

FINE VIEWS

Most routes go past the Minster, whose wooded enclosure creates a timeless air. Others lead up Debbs Lane to the meadows and ponds of the Common, formerly known as Greshaw Green, or to Park Barn with it's fine views back to the Minster and the Hall.