Scottsquar Hill is part of a continuous band of ancient woodland that cloaks the Cotswold escarpment between Haresfield and Standish. The name 'Scottsquar' likely derives from the medieval English 'scot' (a tax or contribution) and 'quarr' (a quarry), hinting at the hill's long history of human use.
Today the woodland is a mix of native beech, ash, oak, and field maple, with an understorey of hazel, holly, and wild privet. The limestone soils support a ground flora characteristic of ancient woodland: dog's mercury, wood sorrel, enchanter's nightshade, and — in spring — spectacular drifts of bluebells that turn the forest floor violet-blue.
“The limestone soils support a ground flora characteristic of ancient woodland: dog's mercury, wood sorrel, enchanter's nightshade, and — in spring — spectacular drifts of bluebells that turn the forest floor violet-blue.”
The woodland rides and clearings are important for butterflies, including the silver-washed fritillary and white admiral. Listen for the drumming of great spotted woodpeckers and the descending song of the willow warbler in early summer. Roe deer are regularly seen at dawn and dusk along the trail.
