Old Winchester Hill National Nature Reserve is a prime example of species-rich chalk grassland in the South Downs National Park. Main habitats: chalk downland, woodland Area: 63 hectares Features of interest A wide range of classic chalk grassland plants can be found throughout the spring and summer, such as wild thyme, squinancywort, clustered bellflower, salad burnet, horseshoe vetch and restharrow. Less common species such as round-headed rampion and field fleawort can also be found. Old Winchester Hill is known to be a hot spot for the chalkhill blue butterfly, with many hundreds, if not thousands visible on a peak day at the beginning of August. In all, 37 species of butterfly have been recorded on the site, the less common of which include the silver-spotted skipper, dark green fritillary and Duke of Burgundy. The reserve is a good place to encounter many of the declining farmland bird species such as linnet, yellowhammer, corn bunting. Raptors such as the red kite, buzzard and kestrel can be seen, as well as summer migrants like whitethroats, willow warblers and blackcaps, and passing visitors including the wheatear and the ring ouzel. The site is also important for archaeology, with prominent Bronze Age burial mounds and well preserved Iron Age hill fort ramparts. Disabled access RADAR key holders can use the easy access trail car park which is accessible from the north gate. The easy access trail can then be used to get to the hill fort. There is a kissing gate with a RADAR lock on it there, to allow easier access for wheelchairs and mobility scooters. Directions Old Winchester Hill is situated mid-way between Winchester and Petersfield, which are served by main railway lines. A bus service runs several times a day between Winchester and Petersfield, stopping at West Meon, about 2 miles from the reserve. See Traveline for details. The reserve can be found 2 miles east of the A32 at the village of Warnford. Voluntary car parking charges can be paid in advance or on the day using the RingGo app. The South Downs Way National Trail crosses the reserve, and is open to walkers, cyclists and horseriders. School and community groups The site is open every day of the year and available for self-guided or guided walks. Groups with minibuses or other tall vehicles should contact site staff to ensure that the height barrier at the entrance to the car park is opened. There are no toilet facilities on site. Volunteering Volunteers undertake light wardening duties such as patrolling the site, and occasional help with sheep management, monitoring and habitat management work. Contact volunteerenquiries@naturalengland.org.uk if you are interested in volunteering at Old Winchester Hill NNR. Contact Contact the NNR enquiry line on 0300 060 6000 or email enquiries@naturalengland.org.uk.