These "unimproved" meadows, just under fifty acres in extent have been described, by Dr Frances Rose, as "the finest habitat of it's type in Southern England" and were designated a National Nature Reserve in 1986.

Surrounded by SSSI woodlands the meadows have very varied spoil types which creates conditions suitable for an exceptionally wide range of flowering plants and insects (7 species of Dragonfly, 31 Butterflies and 300 Moths). A brook runs through the middle of the reserve. Partial flooding is regular in the winter and at times flash floods inundate a more extensive area. The meadows are cut annually for hay and are grazed in the autumn and winter by cattle and horses.

Over forty species of birds have been recorded from the area including Siskins (in the streamside alders), nightigales (in the woodland edge), Yellow Wagtails, Tree Pipits and Woodcock. Mandarin Ducks and Snipe have nested in the past.

The main entrance to the reserve is adjacent to the Ship Inn and public footpaths across the meadows affords easy access.

© copyright remains with the author mentioned