The meadow lies between the River Chess and is damp and marshy. However, there is a mosaic of damp and dry areas which is reflected in the vegetation. The wetter parts support typical plants such as marsh marigold, greater bird's foot treoil, ragged robin and the rare marsh valerian. Sedges abound and there are six different species.
Away from the river the drier, more acidic area supports plants such as betony, devil's-bit scabious, tormentil and heath bedstraw. But, where the meadow meets the river there is a tall fen community characterised by willowherb, reed sweetgrass and reed canary grass.
The mature hedgerows around the meadows are an important habitat for many bird species. Small mammals abound in the hedges and tussocky grass, and in high summer the meadow is alive with butterflies, grasshoppers and other insects.
Dragonflies and damselflies such as the brown hawker and banded demoiselle can be seen beside the river, which provides good habitat for water voles.
This little known reserve is untainted by chemical fertilisers or pesticides. It is owned by the Trust and is designated a Site of Special Scientific Interest.
