Aspal Close

Aspal Close is an English Heritage site situated in Beck Row, Suffolk. It was originally a small park which once belonged to the 14th century manor known as Aspallgate (or Aspel Hall).



In 1982 it was aquired by Forest Heath District Council, and was later established as a Local Nature Reserve in 1991.



This medieval wood pasture contains around 200 Oak trees, many of which are Pollards. Some of these trees are almost 1000 years old.



The site is an excellent habitat for a wide variety of insects, birds, and flowers. Almost 300 different plant species have been recorded at the Close, and a recent survey has shown that at least 6 species of bat are roosting or feeding here.



The Oaks are also home to many different species of fungi. In 2007, a new species of Lichen was discovered on a 700 year old Oak tree!



Many of the ancient Oak are in an advanced stage of decay. Their peeling bark, and split or hollow trunks, provide an ideal habitat for invertebrates to live in. These are then preyed upon by bats and birds.



The site is extensively grazed by rabbits, but there is a possibility that sheep could be introduced in the future.



Over 100 species of birds can be found at Aspal Close. Little Owl, Green Woodpecker, Blue Tit and Kestrel can be frequently seen.



This is a nationally important site, not only for its diverse variety of wildlife, but also because it's one of the few places in the country where ancient Oak can still be found in abundance.



The site is owned and managed by Forest Heath District Council and can be found at grid reference TL700772.