About the reserve

Cwm Ivy Woods and Betty Church reserve is situated on the western extremity of the north Gower limestone escarpment. The reserve is in two parts; a section of woodland and pasture, separated by a private woodland and house, from a small limestone quarry. The two sections of the reserve are linked by the public footpath.

The larger part of the reserve is a fine example of Ash wood with some Oak, Sycamore and planted Beech. Plants such as Bluebell, Dog’s Mercury, Early Purple Orchid and Wood Avens are abundant. Limestone outcrops and fallen timber provide habitats for ferns and bryophytes.

The Betty Church bequest consists of three fields, the largest of which is maintained as grassland with wide hedges, and where planted Snowdrops and Daffodils flourish in spring, and Oxeye Daisy, Black Knapweed and Crosswort can be seen in summer. This field also provides good views of Cwm Ivy Marsh and the Whiteford NNR in winter. The two smaller fields have been planted with deciduous native trees such as Ash, Field Maple and Hazel to provide an extension to Cwm Ivy Woods and as additional cover for birds.

The old limestone quarry displays an advanced stage of colonisation. Its open grazed floor supports an interesting sward of lime-loving plants, such as Milkwort and Wild Thyme.