Wylye Down NNR comprises calcareous grassland that is rich in wildflowers and other plants. Main habitats: grassland Features of interest Over 100 different plants have been recorded on the species-rich grassland, including the internationally protected early gentian. For this reason, Wylye Down has been designated a Site of Special Scientific Interest (SSSI). The reserve is most impressive during spring and summer when the rich diversity of wildflowers are in bloom. The early gentian is one of the first to flower. This purple flowering annual plant relies on short grazed chalk grasslands to survive. Wylye Down is one of the few remaining sites in Europe where it can be found. Not surprisingly this species is one of only 9 plants given international protection as a European Protected Species. An impressive selection of rare orchids can also be found on the reserve. These include burnt tip, frog, green winged and fragrant orchid, the latter in large numbers. Less obvious amongst the grassland are field fleawort, dwarf sedge, bastard toadflax and tuberous thistle. Directions The nearest train station is Tisbury A bus service runs from Tisbury to Wylye via Swallowcliffe and Wilton. See the Traveline south west website for details. The reserve is one mile south of Wylye, close to the junction of the A303 and A38. There is no reserve car park. A public right of way runs from Wylye village to the reserve. Immediately south of the village the bridleway crosses a railway line. Network Rail signs provide instruction on how to cross safely. The Monarch’s Way trail passes near to the reserve. Contact For more information, contact site staff on 07771 944557.