Not all the work undertaken in our recovery of the inspirational walks around Ashley Combe is readily visible. This week we continued clearung the invasive species around the coppiced oak woods high in the combe. Removal of rhododendron, holly and seedling firs enable the luscious mosses to flourish arond the oaks and form a magical environment, particularly in the slanting winter light.

The slopes are steep and loose making work in the area challenging and rewarding and we hope that next time you walk the high paths in the combe you enjoy this unique area that we are bringing back to its former glory.

Clearing undergrowth and invasive species on the steep slopes of the oak woodland

This session completes our volunteer days for 2026 and we would love to hear from new volunteers to help with the work in 2027 when we will continue to clear the paths and start on the next ambitious stage to link the paths, map the multitude of species and form a series of exciting routes through Ada’s visionary land.