Bushy Coombe Nature Reserve - just heard a rumour that this is going up for sale. Does anybody know if this is true? We've just arrived here and thought it was a public nature reserve owned by the council. We walk our dogs there.. It's a shame if it gets built on.

Hi Kelly

Haha, rumours rumours... Bushy Coombe is privately owned but the public footpath to the Tor crosses it on the north side of Chalice Hill. We registered it as a nature reserve with the Somerset Wildlife Trust (an excellent organisation well worth supporting). This valley is abundant with wildlife both flora and fauna and most people who wander off the footpath are very respectful of this. There is no chance that it will be built on or developed, it would never be allowed.

It is true that we may have to auction part of Bushy Coombe in the summer as I have to raise money to care for my mother who has dementia - but nothing is certain yet. I have mentioned this to several people, which is where, no doubt the rumour has come from.

As a friend you are welcome to walk your dog here, although I stress there is no public right of way except on the footpath. We do not appreciate dogs chasing the deer, rabbits, hares or young livestock - and please clean up any dog mess using the bin provided at the Dod Lane end.

I hope this has answered your query.

Welcome to Glastonbury !
Best wishes
Rory and Mani