Dare to uncover a hidden gem, a place where nature thrives just south of a bustling A-road? We’re standing before Bolder Mere. It’s a location of unexpected scientific importance. Its seeming wildness brushes against the everyday rush.
Bolder Mere is part of the Wisley and Ockham Commons. These commons offer a delightful escape near RHS Wisley. Here, you can explore historic sites. You can enjoy the diversity of nature. The commons span 800 acres. They are predominantly heathland. The M25 motorway and A3 split them. A footbridge connects the two commons.
Bolder Mere Lake adds to the area’s natural beauty. The historic Semaphore tower is another feature. It was built in 1822. It sits at Chatley Heath on Ockham Common’s southeast side. The Samuelson Mausoleum is also nearby. Sir Henry Samuelson built it in 1919. He intended it to be a temple of sleep for his family.
You might be wondering what you can do here. You can take long walks using the footbridge. It joins Wisley and Ockham commons. Dog walking is welcome but dogs must be under control. Bird and nature watching are popular activities. You can discover Bolder Mere Lake. Family strolls on sandy paths and picnics are also great options.
The Ockham Bites café is near Bolder Mere car park. It is open from 8 am to 4 pm. Accessible toilets are available at Bolder Mere car park.
Now, let’s talk about some of Bolder Mere’s challenges. Back in 2012, non-native carp were disrupting the ecosystem. They threatened native aquatic plants, invertebrates, and insects. The Surrey Wildlife Trust stepped in. They removed many of the unwelcome carp. One weighed a whopping 14 kg.
Imagine capturing Bolder Mere’s beauty in a photograph. One photographer used a Lee Big Stopper to try out long exposure shots here. They composed the sunlit reeds, distant trees, and passing clouds. The result was stunning. The sun lit up the reeds during the exposure.
Remember, National Highways is working on the M25/A3 junction. This may affect access to Ockham Common. New routes for cyclists, pedestrians, and horse-riders are planned. These include the UK’s first heathland bridge.
Bolder Mere and the surrounding commons hold special designations. They are a Site of Special Scientific Interest. They are also part of the Thames Basin Heaths Special Protection Area. This highlights their importance for wild bird conservation. They are also a Local Nature Reserve. This means they contribute to biodiversity. The local authority must look after them.
As we conclude our visit to Bolder Mere, consider its delicate balance. It is a place of beauty and scientific importance. It offers a peaceful retreat from the nearby road. Take a moment to appreciate the natural world around you. Remember the efforts to preserve this special place. Let’s leave Bolder Mere with a renewed appreciation for nature.