The Wood is shown on maps dating from 1766 - but is thought to be much older; documents from 1676 mention the Wood and link it to a man by the name of John Hawkins. It is separated into North, South and Central compartments by what are thought to be medieval banks and ditches.
The Wood is dominated by oak and ash standards, with an understorey of field maple, hazel and hawthorn. A visit to the reserve in May will be rewarded with views of the bluebells carpeting the northern section of the Wood.
The surrounding open farmland provides grazing for fallow deer which use the wood as cover. There's also a very good chance of seeing brown hare which are abundant in the area.
Populations of many of the species of birds associated with farmland are in decline and therefore they are becoming increasingly hard to see. The hedgerows, open fields and small woodlands around Hawkins Wood provide habitat for several of these species including bullfinch, linnet, yellowhammer, corn bunting, song thrush and grey partridge. Woodcock are known to use the wood in winter. It's certainly advisable to bring your binoculars with you.
The previous owner of the Wood, Mrs Joan Pearcy, kindly left the reserve to the Trust in 2008.
