Bentley Priory Nature Trail
Post 13:
The shore of Summerhouse Lake lies just ahead. In summer it may still be obscured by trees so if you want to, go straight ahead on the narrow path to the water’s edge before returning to this point - but you will get plenty of views of the lake as the trail continues.
Look for a second number 13 marker post ahead and to the left. This marks a sweet chestnut tree Castanea sativa, probably another planting by Sir John Kelk. In a good year, trees in England produce nuts large enough to be worth harvesting and roasting, but in most years the nuts are best left for squirrels.
At this point you turn right and follow the path around the lake. In winter, listen for feeding flocks of siskin high in the trees, feeding on the seeds in pine and alder cones; goldfinches and occasional redpoll also visit.
In spring look out for woodland flowers including primroses Primula vulgaris, wood anemone Anemone nemorosa and the yellow buttercup-like flowers of lesser celandine Ranunculus ficaria - see illustration below. Ramsons or wild garlic Allium ursinum has pretty white flowers and is easily recognised by its garlic smell.
Image: Wood anemone and lesser celandine
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