Discover the serene beauty of Scalpcliffe Wood Nature Reserve, where ancient trees and vibrant wildlife create a perfect escape. Join Kim in exploring the enchanting pathways and enjoy nature's wonders.

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A little history of Scalpcliffe Wood

​Scalpcliffe Hill, originally historically known as Mount Calvus, is a prominent ridge rising to 335 feet in Stapenhill (now part of the Brizlincote parish), located directly across the River Trent from Burton upon Trent town centre. 

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Saint Modwen established a religious settlement in Burton and built a church dedicated to Saint Peter at the foot of Mount Calvus, later known as Scalpcliffe Hill. St Peter’s Church, Stapenhill, now stands on this historic site.

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​Scalpcliffe Wood was once connected with the grounds of Albury House, a large 19th-century home built in the late 1860s for Sydney Evershed, a prominent local brewer and Liberal Member of Parliament.

​Although Albury House was later demolished, traces of its former grounds can still be found around the lower slopes of the woodland. The old steps, ponds, brick wall and other surviving features are reminders of the gardens that once occupied this landscape.

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​Today, Ryder House Care Home stands on the site where Albury House once stood, while the woodland and remnants of the old gardens offer glimpses into the area's past. The Scouts Hut is situated near the base of the steep woodland steps to the summit. 

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Today, much of Scalpcliffe Hill is protected as Scalpcliffe Woods Local Nature Reserve, managed by East Staffordshire Borough Council. Its woodland paths climb steeply to the top, where there are wide views across Burton and the Trent Valley. The reserve is open to walkers and dogs, with several access points around the wood.

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Please enjoy the woodland gently, keeping to the paths where possible and leaving plants and wildlife undisturbed.

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