Howbeech Slade

Wood, Forest in Gloucestershire Forest of Dean

England

Howbeech Slade

Cycle trail on former railway trackbed Credit: David Martin

Howbeech Slade is a picturesque woodland area located in Gloucestershire, England. Situated near the village of Woodchester, it is a popular destination for nature enthusiasts and hikers alike. Covering an area of approximately 100 hectares, this ancient woodland is a designated Site of Special Scientific Interest (SSSI) due to its rich biodiversity.

The woodland is predominantly composed of beech trees, hence its name, but also features a variety of other tree species such as oak, ash, and hazel. The dense canopy of the trees creates a serene and tranquil atmosphere, making it an ideal spot for a peaceful walk or picnic. The forest floor is covered with a thick carpet of ferns and wildflowers, providing a vibrant and colorful display throughout the seasons.

Howbeech Slade is home to a diverse range of wildlife, including several rare and protected species. Birdwatchers can spot a variety of birds, including woodpeckers, owls, and various songbirds. The woodland is also inhabited by mammals such as foxes, badgers, and deer, making it a haven for wildlife enthusiasts.

The woodland is crisscrossed with a network of well-maintained footpaths, offering visitors the opportunity to explore the area and take in the breathtaking views. There are also designated picnic areas and benches for visitors to relax and enjoy the peaceful surroundings. The wood is open to the public year-round, and entry is free.

In conclusion, Howbeech Slade in Gloucestershire is a stunning woodland area that offers visitors a chance to immerse themselves in nature. With its ancient trees, diverse wildlife, and tranquil atmosphere, it is a must-visit destination for anyone seeking a peaceful retreat in the heart of the countryside.

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Howbeech Slade Images

Images are sourced within 2km of 51.77997/-2.5162858 or Grid Reference SO6409. Thanks to Geograph Open Source API. All images are credited.

Cycle trail on former railway trackbed

David Martin

Family Cycle Trail, Forest of Dean

The Cycle Trail follows the main line of Severn and Wye Railway to the site of Drybrook Road Junction and then this, the northern part of the Mineral Loop Line. The final part of the cycle loop leaves old railway routes.

Robin Webster

Forestry road, Forest of Dean

Steven Brown

Young trees, Staple Edge Wood

Near the summit of Staple Edge with a big view.

Richard Webb

Staple Edge

An inhabited summit in the Forest of Dean.

Richard Webb

Remains of limestone extraction workings

The softer limestone has been extracted from harder dolomite by a process of heating by fire and quenching by cold water.

Dr Duncan Pepper

Exposed ribs of dolomite

The harder layers of dolomite remain where softer limestone has been extracted by a laborious fire/quenching process.

Dr Duncan Pepper

Findall chimney-well hidden in extensive beech woods

This well preserved monument to industry in the Forest of Dean coal field utilised the rising hot air from a fire at the base of the chimney to pull out stale air from the adjacent coal mines.

Dr Duncan Pepper

The White Horse Inn, Upper Soudley

Village pub on Church Road apparently noted for snail racing.

Stephen McKay

Top Road, Upper Soudley

Looking towards the White Horse Inn with a still functioning telephone box. There are plans to close the box, a controversial move because mobile reception is poor in this area.

Stephen McKay

Church Road, Upper Soudley

Ahead is the White Horse Inn. The road through the heart of the Forest of Dean is designated a scenic route. The entrance on the immediate left gives access to the pub car park but at one time there was a station here on the long-closed Cinderford branch.

Stephen McKay

Bench mark in Upper Soudley, Forest of Dean

This Ordnance Survey bench mark is on the remaining bridge support that once carried the G.W.R. Forest of Dean Branch through Upper Soudley. See also: SO6510 : Former railway bridge support in Upper Soudley

John S Turner

Former railway bridge support in Upper Soudley

The remaining bridge support that once carried the G.W.R. Forest of Dean Branch through Upper Soudley. There is an Ordnance Survey bench mark on the short face facing the camera: SO6510 : Bench mark in Upper Soudley, Forest of Dean

John S Turner

A rivet-less rivet bench mark on Soudley Bridge, Forest of Dean

This indistinct rivet bench mark is on the low east parapet on the older of the two bridges over Soudley Brook, Upper Soudley. The older bridge has now been by-passed providing safer access to the village hall. See also SO6510 : Soudley bridges over Soudley Brook

John S Turner

Soudley bridges over Soudley Brook

Part of the older of the two Soudley Bridges, with the more modern, and safer one behind the trees. There is a rivet bench mark cut into the low parapet in front of the camera: SO6510 : A rivet-less rivet bench mark on Soudley Bridge, Forest of Dean

John S Turner

'Herbert & Young Coleford Glos' Sluice Valve cover

This old cast iron cover is near the road bridge over Cinderford Brook. probably cast between 1893 and 1942 when the company were at Howler's Slade, Coleford, Forest of Dean.

John S Turner