Magnificent Meadows Project: A Summer of Meadow Magic in Hampshire

A spectacular start at Winchester Cathedral

The 2025 season of our Magnificent Meadows project began at Winchester Cathedral, where volunteers gathered to learn the traditional art of scything. With peregrine falcons screeching overhead and the scent of lime tree blossom in the air, it was an opportunity to celebrate traditional countryside skills – practices that not only connect us to our rural heritage but also care for the land in a sustainable, low-impact way.

Powered by the South Downs Trust

This year’s work has been made possible thanks to a generous £10,000 donation from the South Downs Trust, which kick-started the second phase of the Magnificent Meadows project. Their ongoing support is fundamental to our efforts to restore and protect species-rich grasslands across Hampshire.

As part of our appeal to match-fund the donation by the South Downs Trust, we’re also grateful to Winchester Round Table and Winchester Rotary for their generous contributions to our Magnificent Meadows project.

Returning to Cowslip Field

From Winchester, the team returned to Cowslip Field at Bar End – a small but ecologically valuable meadow that was part of the Magnificent Meadow’s pilot project. emerged after the old road was removed during the construction of the M3. Once part of the old road network before the M3 was built, this small meadow has since flourished into a haven for rare flora and fauna. We continue to support its restoration, offering a space where people can come together, learn traditional haymaking techniques, and reconnect with the rhythms of the land.

Traditional skills, tangible results

Throughout June, volunteers have been busy:

• Scything and raking the meadow
• Rowing up the hay
• Using traditional box balers to produce forage

The results:

• 10 bales of nutritious meadow hay – a vital resource during this year’s drought
• 21 bales of bramble hay – perfect for local goats

These bales will provide much-needed feed for livestock, demonstrating the practical value of meadow restoration alongside its environmental benefits.

Looking ahead: seed collection and restoration

In July and August, the team will return to collect wildflower seeds from the healthiest parts of the meadow. These seeds will be scattered into weedy areas to help restore the site to a species-rich grassland, supporting pollinators and improving biodiversity.

Celebrating our volunteers

A huge congratulations to everyone who has taken part so far – whether you’ve scythed, raked, rowed up, baled, or hauled hay. Your dedication is helping Hampshire’s magnificent meadows thrive.

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Your support can help Hampshire’s Magnificent Meadows flourish

There’s still time to get involved and help us reach our fundraising goal. Every donation supports hands-on conservation, community engagement, and the restoration of species-rich meadows across Hampshire.

Donate now