Happy Valley
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Happy Valley & Ancient Wood
This 250 acre chalk downs is a haven for some nationally rare wildlife including
the Greater Yellow Rattle, ten types of Orchid, the Essex Skipper, and the Roman Snail
Charcoal making takes place during the spring and summer
Cattle grazing, using a herd of Sussex cattle, has been introduced to help safeguard
the habitat
The Valley, and woods, are a popular site for both walkers, and nature lovers
Brought in 1937 under the Green Belt Scheme as a link between Farthing Downs, and
Coulsdon Common
Happy Valley also includes Grebelands, and Parsons Pightle Estate, and the ancient wood called Devilsden Woods
Up until the First World War Devilsden Wood was a private property, and had a very prominent notice displayed
PRIVATE PROPERTY - BEWARE OF MAN TRAPS
Click HERE for more Information
There are lots to see- woodland, meadows, nature trails cross country course, horse rides, and a children's playground in
Ellis Road
Bird life includes kestrels, Pheasants, Yellow Hammers, and Woodpeckers
November 2002
Happy Valley has been awarded the prestigious Green Flag, by the Civic Trust, for a welcoming, safe, and well-maintained
open space, with a strong local community involvement
July 2006
Happy Valley awarded the prestigious Green Flag by the Civic Trust for the second time
October 2007
Happy Valley has again been awarded, for the third time, the prestigious Green Flag Award by the Civic Trust
October 2008
For the fourth time Happy Valley has been awarded the Green Flag by the Civic Trust