Ranscombe Farm Nature Reserve, Kent – Improving the visitor experience

Ranscombe Farm Nature Reserve is one of the three richest in Britain for woodland and calcareous grassland flowers. It provides a unique visitor experience being a mix of truly natural and a working farmed landscape.

Fundamental issues concerning access to the site have been identified which are hindering visitor numbers and experience. This project will tackle key constraints on the use of the site as a local asset by undertaking the following access improvement works.

1. New stoned-surfaced footpaths covering a length of over 1400m. These will offer safe, easy access, routes suitable for wheelchairs and pushchairs.

2. Entrance improvements, including new gates, anti-motorcycle security, removal of graffiti, that will improve site security, first impressions and access for disabled people, horse riders and cyclists.

3. 25 finger-post way-markers and 20 new benches providing (i) periodic rest-stops; and (ii) picnic areas at two key view-points

4. Small building to support public events