Nationally scarce (Nb) in ancient woodland and mature oak woodland throughout much of southern England. In Hampshire and on the Isle of Wight a species of ancient woodlands, occurring in the New Forest and other large woods, but has declined in many places through habitat destruction. Wingspan 60-68 mm. The main confusion species is
Pale Oak Beauty H. punctinalis, which differs in plain apex of underwing of forewing. Larva feeds on Pedunculate Oak.