Wildfire risk
With wildfire risk currently extremely high, we urge visitors to take extra care by avoiding any activity that could start a fire and immediately reporting any signs of smoke or fire to 999 to help protect people and wildlife. Please note, some of our nature reserves are closed due to wildfires, please check before you travel.
Advice on wildfire preventionThu 30 July 2026 12:00 Days out
Garston Wood
DeanlandOpenSee opening timesMeander along the paths that criss-cross this ancient woodland and look for signs of Badgers and Fallow Deer. Listen out for Nightingales and spot Marsh Tits, or enjoy swathes of Bluebells in spring.
About
The ancient woodland of Garston Wood has been managed for centuries, creating a special place for wildlife, including Blackcaps and Marsh Tits, colourful wildflowers and small mammals such as dormice, which love the coppiced Hazel we tend to.
This ancient wood is arguably at its best when its breathtaking carpets of Bluebells, Wood Anemones and Primroses are in bloom between mid-April to the end of May. But, visit during autumn for rich, warm colours and plenty of fungi to spot.
At a glance
8 spaces A small hard-surfaced visitor car park with unmarked bays. No height restrictions.
No accessible toilet on-site. Businesses in Sixpenny Handley around two miles away have toilets for customers. The closest public toilets are in Salisbury or Shaftesbury which are both around a thirty minute drive.
No toilet on-site. Businesses in Sixpenny Handley around two miles away have toilets for customers. The closest public toilets are in Salisbury or Shaftesbury which are both around a thirty minute drive.
Pushchair Accessible
Pushchair Accessible
The Northerly path passes through a deer fence with a 1m wide latched gate. South-westerly path passes through a narrow kissing gate. Surfaces vary from wide cut vehicle 'rides' to unsurfaced footpaths.
No toilet on-site. Businesses in Sixpenny Handley around two miles away have toilets for customers. The closest public toilets are in Salisbury or Shaftesbury which are both around a thirty minute drive.
BBQs are a fire risk, endangering other people and the precious wildlife and habitats here. They are not permitted on the reserve at any time.
We ask that dog owners keep their dog on a lead when visiting the reserve. Please pick up after your dog, take waste away with you and dispose of in a dog waste bin.
Assistance dogs are welcome in all parts of the reserve.
See what’s here
Contact Garston Wood
arne@rspb.org.uk Garston Wood, Dean Ln, Salisbury, Wiltshire, SP5 5PA 01929 553360