Muffet Wood is part of Redwell Wood Site of Special Scientific Interest (SSSI). The SSSI is described as a complex site comprising both ancient woodland of the Pedunculate oak/hornbeam type and heathland which is uncommon in Hertfordshire. The ground flora reflects different moisture regimes created by the geology and includes bluebell, enchanter’s nightshade, honeysuckle, wood sage, foxglove and species indicative of the wood’s ancient origins such as wood sedge, yellow archangel, yellow pimpernel and dewberry.

Muffet Wood has the huge benefit of being part of a very large area of woodland surrounded by green fields. The mixed habitat of woodland next to open farmland has created a hospitable environment for wildlife, deer are regular visitors along with foxes and hares. It is amazing how much wildlife uses the woodland as a sanctuary.

The woodland is gently sloping and it is easy to slip from sight. Two old ponds are located in the western part of the wood. Having ponds is a great feature as they draw in every type of wildlife. Sitting quietly by water is always relaxing. A ditch runs along the northern boundary creating a good barrier and ensuring the wood privacy. The woodland is surrounded on all other sides by private woodland.

An excellent stone track leads the whole way to the wood giving an owner year round access without the need for a 4x4.

This protected woodland lends itself perfectly as a place to escape the hustle and bustle of daily life. A refuge from city living.

For those seeking a tranquil retreat it could be ideal for meditation. The simple experience of being calm and quiet amongst the trees, observing nature around you whilst breathing deeply. Perhaps the ultimate post Covid remedy.

The larger area of woodland to which Muffet Wood forms part is known as Hawkshead Wood. Until the mid-1970s part of the North Mymms Park Estate which was the home of the famed American banker Pierpont-Morgan and his descendants. It is believed the mature hardwoods in Hawkshead Wood along with those in the adjoining former estate were planted at the turn of the nineteenth century. Their predecessors could well have felled trees to provide timber for Nelsons fleet.

Local legend has it that "Little Miss Muffet" of the nursery rhyme was Patience Moffat, daughter of entomologist Dr.Thomas Moffat (possibly Moffett or Moufet), who lived in the area from 1553 to 1604 on a farm. He had invited a poet over for Christmas. During his stay he overheard Miss Moffat tell her father of how she was eating her curds and whey when a spider came down from the ceiling and frightened her. The poet made an alteration to the name Miss Moffat and wrote the rhyme. However, the traceable origins of the rhyme are murky, as it did not appear in a printed version until 1805. The local connection is celebrated by the inclusion of a spider's web in the badge of Brookmans Park School. The wood is named after her, if your lucky you may see a giant wood spider.