A behavioural observation that might be of interest;
On 22/09/2010 I found a single Nuctenea umbratica in the head of a Common Reed. It was in its usual hidden-away posture but not under bark or associated with a fencepost etc as usually described (although the reed was alongside a small wooden jetty). The site is by the River Itchen at Highbridge Farm (VC11, SU4620).