• Hengrove Mounds and Hawkfield Meadow

Hengrove Mounds is a hidden gem near to the popular Hengrove Playpark. Continue round the path and you’ll discover a wildlife haven that has developed over an old landfill site. The raised doughnut shape of the mounds provides a circular walk amongst wildflowers and scrub that provides habitat for many butterflies, bees and insects. Goats were brought onto the mounds in early 2023 to help manage the scrub (they'll eat freshly emerging bramble shoots!), and are looked after by Street Goat. Hawkfield meadow is a valuable patch of remnant countryside home to rare bees, many butterflies and unusual wildflowers such as pale flax and dyer's greenweed. Keep a look out on the surrounding streets for wildlife too - this area is home to two nationally scarce insects, the carrot mining bee and the small blue butterfly.

Location: The two sites are located in Bristol’s southern suburbs and are classed as Sites of Nature Conservation Interest (SNCI). The Mounds are bordered by a cinema complex, Hengrove Park Leisure Centre, Hengrove Way and Whitchurch Lane. Hawkfield lies to the south of Whitchurch Lane, and is bordered by a road, a business park, housing and playing fields.

Concerned about something at the site? You can report any issues directly to the landowner Bristol City Council here -  Report a problem in a park or open space - bristol.gov.uk

Concerned about the welfare of a goat? If you notice or have a concern about the goat’s welfare - in an emergency, please call Street Goat - 07708977063 . If an emergency due to anti-social behaviour please contact the Police by dialing 999, or report via 101.

Get involved: Friends of Hengrove Mounds and Hawkfield Meadows is an online group of local people who share their wildlife sightings and enjoyment of these two special sites.

On Facebook? Find out more by joining  Friends of Hengrove Mounds and Hawkfield Meadows Facebook Group for wildlife sightings, opportunities and updates. Or join BS14 Wildlife Group for wildlife spots and nature-friendly ideas across the area.

Wildlife monitoring is a great way to support local wildlife sites! Find out more about wildlife monitoring and how it helps protect nature on our blog. You can also contact nature.parks@bristol.gov.uk for further support to monitor a range of species and explore options for wildlife monitoring across the city here. 

Get the most from your visit with downloadable maps and resources below:

Download an illustrated map of the site