An area of ancient woodland along the limestone gorge through which the River Teme flows, Downton Gorge NNR contains a wide variety of trees, including sessile oak, lime, ash and wych elm, among others. Main habitats: woodland Downton Gorge is currently closed to the public. Features of interest Downton Gorge is one of the few remaining relict fragments of the ancient Royal Chase of Bringewood, which covered a large area in this part of the Welsh Borders during medieval times. The gorge contains a number of woodland types, some of which are nationally scarce. Much of the more calcareous part of the gorge is covered by woodland with sessile oak, ash and wych elm, together with both large-leaved and small-leaved lime. On the upper slopes where the soils are more acid silver birch becomes more prominent. Large-leaved lime is a nationally rare native tree and its association with small-leaved lime and sessile oak in the acidic areas of the woodland is considered one of the more important examples remaining in Britain of this type of woodland. The narrow ravine of the gorge provides a humid microclimate, which benefits a variety of ferns, bryophytes, lichens and fungi. During April and May, Natural England staff and volunteers lead a limited number of guided walks along the gorge. Guided visits to the gorge can also be arranged by appointment for small local groups with an interest in the site’s geology, flora and fauna. Contact To arrange a guided visit, contact Stiperstones reserve office on 01743 792294 or email: stiperstones.events@naturalengland.org.uk