Calfhay Plantation

Wood, Forest in Dorset

England

Calfhay Plantation

Melbury Bubb: parish church of St. Mary Another Dorset church with a 15th-century tower but otherwise rebuilt in the 19th – in 1851 in this instance. — Melbury Bubb: parish church of St. Mary Credit: Chris Downer

Calfhay Plantation is a beautiful woodland area located in Dorset, England. Covering an area of approximately 50 hectares, it is a popular destination for nature lovers and outdoor enthusiasts. The plantation is nestled in the heart of the countryside, surrounded by rolling hills and picturesque landscapes.

The woodland is predominantly made up of native broadleaf trees, including oak, beech, and ash. These trees provide a rich and diverse habitat for a wide range of wildlife, including birds, mammals, and insects. Walking through the plantation, visitors can expect to see and hear various bird species, such as woodpeckers, thrushes, and owls.

Trails and footpaths wind their way through the woodland, offering visitors the opportunity to explore and discover its natural beauty. The paths are well-maintained, making it accessible to all ages and abilities. Along the way, there are information boards providing details about the flora and fauna found within the plantation.

Calfhay Plantation is not only a haven for wildlife but also a popular spot for recreational activities. Visitors can enjoy picnics, nature photography, and even orienteering. The peaceful atmosphere and scenic surroundings make it an ideal place for relaxation and escape from the hustle and bustle of daily life.

Managed by local authorities, Calfhay Plantation is open to the public throughout the year and admission is free. It is a cherished local gem, attracting both locals and tourists alike, who come to experience the tranquility and natural wonders it has to offer.

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Calfhay Plantation Images

Images are sourced within 2km of 50.861895/-2.547906 or Grid Reference ST6107. Thanks to Geograph Open Source API. All images are credited.

Melbury Bubb: parish church of St. Mary

Another Dorset church with a 15th-century tower but otherwise rebuilt in the 19th – in 1851 in this instance.

Chris Downer

Upside-down animals

The Saxon font of the ST5906 : Melbury Bubb: parish church of St. Mary has – presumably on purpose – been upturned at some point.

Chris Downer

Chetnole Railway Station

Looking North towards Yeovil

Andrew Davis

Melbury Bubb Church and Manor House

'Rime Intrinsica, Fontmell Magna, Sturminster Newton and Melbury Bubb...' is the opening line of the much loved poem by John Betjeman, that evokes much that is quintessential about the Dorset countryside. This quiet spot shelters the parish church of St. Mary's, and the manor house. The former dates from 1474 when the tower was built, but was substantially restored and virtually rebuilt in 1854. Inside there is an unusual 'upside down' font that was probably once the base of an C11 Anglo-Saxon carved cross hollowed out. The manor house to the left of the church dates from about 1602, with parts even earlier.

Mike Searle

Maize Field, Foys, Chetnole, Dorset

A recently harvested maize field near Chetnole. In the background is the Dorchester to Yeovil railway line and the shelter on Chetnole Station platform can be clearly seen.

Nigel Mykura

Maize near Chetnole

In the past, maize was grown in Britain mainly as animal fodder, although sweetcorn varieties have been grown on a small scale in the south-east for the table. New varieties which will ripen in our climate have now been introduced. In Victorian times maize for silage was cut green and fed to cattle in June and July. Today it is left to become as ripe as possible and harvested with a special machine which chops stalk, leaf and head together; it is then stored in silos.

Maigheach-gheal

Melbury Bubb: postbox № DT2 106

The postbox serving Melbury Bubb is a standard Elizabeth II-reign one attached to a wooden post. It is emptied finally at 9:30am on weekdays and Saturdays. The tower of the ST5906 : Melbury Bubb: parish church of St. Mary is visible in the background.

Chris Downer