Forms an extensive block of ancient woodland
Has regionally rare plants, including green hellebore, early purple orchid, broad-leaved helleborine, orpine Solomon's seal and lily of the valley
Has open areas supporting heathland with heather, common cow-wheat and breeding tree pipit
The site is important for insects, including the white admiral butterfly, moths and the southern wood-ant
A disused chalk mine supports hibernating bats
Horse riding is allowed along the bridle path to the western end of the woods
