1. A short walk leads to a grove of mature larch, the only conifer that is deciduous (it sheds its needles in winter). Larch needles emerge from the stem by radiating from a point. Scattered throughout this region are a few large mature oaks, which were probably here in 1817 when Stratfield Saye was presented by the nation to the Duke of Wellington.
2. Before reaching a clearing you come across a few mature birch mixed with sallow and hazel. In the clearing bracken takes full advantage of the direct daylight and grows noticeably taller than in shaded areas.
3. Continuing along the trail, rowan trees provide a paradise for birds. The orange-red berries give rich pickings for thrushes, blackbirds and finches. In spring, the rowan blossoms into white flowers.
4. The trail now leads to an open ride bordered on the left by holly trees. Until 1955 these trees were coppiced and the wood was used for making bobbins for thread.
5. The short walk along this ride provides another opportunity of seeing butterflies. Foxgloves grow here and on the left is a small clump of gorse bushes. Tormentil, a yellow flower with four petals and five-fingered leaves, also appears on the ride.

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