Shaw Common

Wood, Forest in Gloucestershire Forest of Dean

England

Shaw Common

Oxenhall Canal Tunnel Southern Portal, 1979 A photograph taken in what looks to be fairly wintry conditions sometime in 1978/79.

It was in a pretty sorry state back then; work was undertaken to renovate it in the 90s (see David Stowell&#039;s picture here: <a title="https://www.geograph.org.uk/photo/3682" href="https://www.geograph.org.uk/photo/3682">Link</a> ) but it has, sadly, since fallen back into disrepair (John Winder&#039;s picture of 2011: <span class="nowrap"><a title="https://m.geograph.org.uk/photo/5997716" rel="nofollow ugc noopener" href="https://m.geograph.org.uk/photo/5997716">Link</a><img style="margin-left:2px;" alt="External link" title="External link - shift click to open in new window" src="https://s1.geograph.org.uk/img/external.png" width="10" height="10"/></span> ) — Oxenhall Canal Tunnel Southern Portal, 1979 Credit: Bill Blair

Shaw Common is a picturesque woodland area located in Gloucestershire, England. Situated in the heart of the Forest of Dean, this natural haven covers an area of approximately 200 acres. Shaw Common is renowned for its diverse range of tree species, including oak, beech, and birch, which create a rich and vibrant ecosystem.

The woodland is characterized by its dense canopy, providing shade and shelter to a variety of wildlife. It is home to numerous bird species, such as woodpeckers, owls, and songbirds, making it a popular destination for birdwatchers. Additionally, Shaw Common is inhabited by several mammal species, including foxes, badgers, and deer.

This beautiful woodland offers a range of recreational activities for visitors. A network of walking trails meanders through Shaw Common, allowing visitors to explore its natural beauty at their own pace. The trails are well-maintained and suitable for all levels of fitness, making them an ideal choice for families and nature enthusiasts alike.

Shaw Common also features a designated picnic area, providing a peaceful spot to enjoy a packed lunch amidst the tranquility of nature. The area is equipped with tables and benches, making it a popular destination for families and groups.

Overall, Shaw Common in Gloucestershire is a haven for nature lovers, offering a diverse range of flora and fauna in a stunning woodland setting. Whether visitors are seeking a leisurely walk, a birdwatching adventure, or a peaceful picnic spot, Shaw Common has something to offer for everyone.

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Shaw Common Images

Images are sourced within 2km of 51.946195/-2.448199 or Grid Reference SO6927. Thanks to Geograph Open Source API. All images are credited.

Oxenhall Canal Tunnel Southern Portal, 1979

A photograph taken in what looks to be fairly wintry conditions sometime in 1978/79. It was in a pretty sorry state back then; work was undertaken to renovate it in the 90s (see David Stowell's picture here: Link ) but it has, sadly, since fallen back into disrepair (John Winder's picture of 2011: Link

)

Bill Blair

Disused canal

The disused Herefordshire and Gloucestershire canal, north of Newent.

Pebble

Rolling hills

A field with grassy rolling hills.

Pebble

Old tractor

A rusty blue tractor on the edge of a field.

Pebble

Holder's Farm and sheep field

Holder's Farm, seen from the footpath through a sheep field.

Pebble

Mixed hedges and trees at Hillend Green

The junction at Hillend Green; the hedges have been trimmed at different times, giving a contrast between the two sides of the road.

David Smith

Hereford & Gloucester Canal - from under Cold Harbour Bridge

The 34 mile canal was built between 1793 and 1845 but closed in 1881. There are plans for its restoration to navigation. Just north of this bridge is the 2192 yard Oxenhall tunnel that is no longer open throughout.

Chris Allen

Maize field

Julian P Guffogg

Track to Waterdynes

Julian P Guffogg

Gloucester - Hereford canal near Newent

The canal was opened in 1798 but never really made any money. In 1863 it was leased to the Great Western Railway, who converted much of the route between Gloucester and Ledbury to a railway, which opened in 1885. The section pictured here was never converted, the GWR preferring to build a new section of line to bypass Oxenhall Tunnel.There is an active restoration group working towards the reopening of the canal.

John Winder

Former railway bridge near Oxenhall

This bridge carries a minor road over the old Gloucester - Ledbury railway, which opened in 1885 and closed to passengers in 1959 (although the Dymock to Gloucester section remained in use by freight traffic until 1964). I didn't get a chance to get onto the trackbed to photograph the bridge itself so this shot of the side walls will have to do!

John Winder

Course of old railway at Oxenhall

Taken from the old overbridge on the road between Dymock and Oxenhall. Much of this railway was constructed on the route of the old Gloucester - Hereford canal. However, the part pictured here was constructed by the GWR on a new alignment in order to avoid the canal tunnel at Oxenhall, which had been built down to a price and was falling to bits almost before it opened.

John Winder