Hamcastle Plantation

Wood, Forest in Worcestershire Malvern Hills

England

Hamcastle Plantation

Shelsley Watermill (1), Shelsley Walsh This impressive three storey watermill is on a milling site dating back to 1308, although the brick shell of the current mill is just over 200 years old. However some of the internal machinery and the timber frame is believed to date from around 1700. The mill was grinding animal feed up to about 1923, after which it was neglected and left to decay. The fortunate effect of that was that the equipment was left in situ. It has now been restored by the hard work of the volunteers of the Shelsley Water Mill Society, a registered charity, who have been working on the mill since about 2006.

The mill is on land owned by the Winnington Estate, and in an area leased to the Midland Automobile Club. This is the group that runs the famous motor sports events at Shelsley Walsh, and from whom most of the mill society&#039;s volunteers are drawn. The mill is not normally open to the public, but the Society have a website which gives further details.

<a href="https://www.geograph.org.uk/photo/2408824">SO7263 : Shelsley Watermill (2) - waterwheel, Shelsley Walsh</a>.
<a href="https://www.geograph.org.uk/photo/2408846">SO7263 : Shelsley Watermill (3) - waterwheel, Shelsley Walsh</a>.
<a href="https://www.geograph.org.uk/photo/2935900">SO7263 : Shelsley Watermill (4) - waterwheel, Shelsley Walsh</a>.
<a href="https://www.geograph.org.uk/photo/2935917">SO7263 : Shelsley Watermill (5) - part of interior, Shelsley Walsh</a>.
<a href="https://www.geograph.org.uk/photo/2935942">SO7263 : Shelsley Watermill (6) - waterwheel, Shelsley Walsh</a>.
<a href="https://www.geograph.org.uk/photo/2935960">SO7263 : Shelsley Watermill (7) - waterwheel, Shelsley Walsh</a>.
<a href="https://www.geograph.org.uk/photo/2935987">SO7263 : Shelsley Watermill (8) - south end of stable block, Shelsley Walsh</a>.
<a href="https://www.geograph.org.uk/photo/2936011">SO7263 : Shelsley Watermill (9) - part of interior of stable block, Shelsley Walsh</a>.
<a href="https://www.geograph.org.uk/photo/2936060">SO7263 : Shelsley Watermill (10) - stable block, Shelsley Walsh</a>.

Links to further photos, please see:- <a href="https://www.geograph.org.uk/photo/2937795">SO7263 : Shelsley Watermill (11) - stable block, Shelsley Walsh</a>. — Shelsley Watermill (1), Shelsley Walsh Credit: P L Chadwick

Hamcastle Plantation, located in Worcestershire, England, is a picturesque woodland area nestled in the heart of the county. Spanning over acres of lush greenery, it is renowned for its enchanting natural beauty and rich history.

The plantation is characterized by its dense forest of various tree species, including oak, beech, and ash. This diverse ecosystem provides a habitat for a wide range of flora and fauna, making it a haven for nature enthusiasts and wildlife lovers. Walking through the woodland, one can encounter a myriad of rare plants, wildflowers, and mushrooms, creating a vibrant tapestry of colors throughout the seasons.

Hamcastle Plantation also boasts a fascinating historical background. Dating back to the medieval era, it was once part of a larger estate owned by the Hamcastle family, from whom it derived its name. The remnants of a medieval hunting lodge can still be seen within the plantation, adding an air of mystique and intrigue to the area.

The woodland offers a tranquil escape from the hustle and bustle of everyday life, attracting visitors seeking solace and relaxation. It provides ample opportunities for outdoor activities such as hiking, birdwatching, and photography. Well-maintained trails meander through the plantation, offering breathtaking views of the surrounding countryside.

Moreover, Hamcastle Plantation is committed to environmental conservation and sustainable practices. It is actively involved in various conservation projects, aiming to preserve the natural beauty and biodiversity of the area for future generations.

In conclusion, Hamcastle Plantation is a captivating woodland retreat that combines natural splendor with a rich historical heritage. With its verdant forests, diverse wildlife, and commitment to conservation, it remains an enduring treasure in Worcestershire's landscape.

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Hamcastle Plantation Images

Images are sourced within 2km of 52.252026/-2.4067741 or Grid Reference SO7261. Thanks to Geograph Open Source API. All images are credited.

Shelsley Watermill (1), Shelsley Walsh

This impressive three storey watermill is on a milling site dating back to 1308, although the brick shell of the current mill is just over 200 years old. However some of the internal machinery and the timber frame is believed to date from around 1700. The mill was grinding animal feed up to about 1923, after which it was neglected and left to decay. The fortunate effect of that was that the equipment was left in situ. It has now been restored by the hard work of the volunteers of the Shelsley Water Mill Society, a registered charity, who have been working on the mill since about 2006. The mill is on land owned by the Winnington Estate, and in an area leased to the Midland Automobile Club. This is the group that runs the famous motor sports events at Shelsley Walsh, and from whom most of the mill society's volunteers are drawn. The mill is not normally open to the public, but the Society have a website which gives further details. SO7263 : Shelsley Watermill (2) - waterwheel, Shelsley Walsh. SO7263 : Shelsley Watermill (3) - waterwheel, Shelsley Walsh. SO7263 : Shelsley Watermill (4) - waterwheel, Shelsley Walsh. SO7263 : Shelsley Watermill (5) - part of interior, Shelsley Walsh. SO7263 : Shelsley Watermill (6) - waterwheel, Shelsley Walsh. SO7263 : Shelsley Watermill (7) - waterwheel, Shelsley Walsh. SO7263 : Shelsley Watermill (8) - south end of stable block, Shelsley Walsh. SO7263 : Shelsley Watermill (9) - part of interior of stable block, Shelsley Walsh. SO7263 : Shelsley Watermill (10) - stable block, Shelsley Walsh. Links to further photos, please see:- SO7263 : Shelsley Watermill (11) - stable block, Shelsley Walsh.

P L Chadwick

Shelsley Watermill (2) - waterwheel, Shelsley Walsh

The present cast iron waterwheel was ordered from Turtons of Kidderminster in October 1851. It was restored in 2007, and now has a mixture of both old and new steel buckets. More about the mill:- SO7263 : Shelsley Watermill (1), Shelsley Walsh.

P L Chadwick

Shelsley Watermill (3) - waterwheel, Shelsley Walsh

This external overshot waterwheel dates from 1851, and was restored in 2007. More about the mill:- SO7263 : Shelsley Watermill (1), Shelsley Walsh.

L S Wilson

Court House, Shelsley Walsh

This Grade II listed building is believed to have originally been a court or manor house, but has also served as a farmhouse. Originally it was surrounded by a moat. Parts date from the 16th century and other parts from the 17th, 18th & 19th centuries. There is some timber framing in the older parts. Photographed from the grounds of the nearby Shelsley Watermill.

P L Chadwick

River Teme looking northwest from New Mill Bridge, near Shelsley Beauchamp

The River Teme (Afon Tefeidiad in Welsh) rises in Mid Wales, south of Newtown, Powys, and flows through Knighton, where it crosses into England, and continues to Ludlow in Shropshire. It then continues to the north of Tenbury Wells, on the Shropshire/Worcestershire border, and eventually joins the River Severn south of Worcester.

P L Chadwick

Meadows by the River Teme at New Mill Bridge, near Shelsley Beauchamp

This locality was once an important ironworking area, although nothing visible remains. Today it's difficult to imagine this as an industrial site, as it is so peaceful and rural.

P L Chadwick

River Teme looking east from New Mill Bridge, near Shelsley Beauchamp

The river flows into the River Severn just south of Worcester.

P L Chadwick

St. Andrew's Church (1), Shelsley Walsh

Mainly constructed from local tufa, a variety of limestone. The nave is Norman, and the chancel 13th century, but with all windows renewed at a later date. There was what Pevsner & Brooks (Buildings of Worcestershire) described as a "distinctively quirky restoration" by George Truefitt in 1859. This resulted in the addition of the pyramid-roofed timber bell-turret and north porch. He was also responsible for painting the boarded ceiling light blue, with violet stars. Unfortunately the church was closed, so it wasn't possible to photograph this remarkable feature! SO7262 : St. Andrew's Church (2), Shelsley Walsh. SO7262 : St. Andrew's Church (3) - north porch, Shelsley Walsh.

P L Chadwick

St. Andrew's Church (2), Shelsley Walsh

The church grounds are very attractive, and beautifully kept. Other photos of the church:- SO7262 : St. Andrew's Church (1), Shelsley Walsh.

L S Wilson

St. Andrew's Church (3) - north porch, Shelsley Walsh

This porch was one of the additions made in 1859 by George Truefitt, as part of his "restoration" of the church. There is unfortunately a reflection from the camera lens iris in this photograph. Other photos of the church:- SO7262 : St. Andrew's Church (1), Shelsley Walsh.

P L Chadwick

New Mill Bridge near Shelsley Beauchamp

This bridge carries a minor road to Shelsley Beauchamp across the River Teme. It was rebuilt in 1931 by the Worcestershire County Council. It is made of stone, with wrought-iron balustrades. New Mill doesn't seem to exist anymore. Possibly it was connected with the ironworking industry, which used to be around here long ago.

P L Chadwick

All Saints Church (1), Shelsley Beauchamp

The church is medieval but was mainly rebuilt by James Cranston of Oxford in 1846-47. The tower is 14th century. SO7362 : All Saints Church (2) - lychgate, Shelsley Beauchamp. SO7362 : All Saints Church (3), Shelsley Beauchamp. SO7362 : All Saints Church (4) - porch, Shelsley Beauchamp. SO7362 : All Saints Church (5) - remains of old cross, Shelsley Beauchamp.

P L Chadwick

All Saints Church (2) - lychgate, Shelsley Beauchamp

The lychgate dates from around 1887. More photos of the church:- SO7362 : All Saints Church (1), Shelsley Beauchamp.

P L Chadwick

All Saints Church (3), Shelsley Beauchamp

The church has a medieval font, dating from the 12th or 13th century. Much else inside is Victorian. More photos of the church:- SO7362 : All Saints Church (1), Shelsley Beauchamp.

P L Chadwick

All Saints Church (4) - porch, Shelsley Beauchamp

The porch with entrance door is on the south side of the church. More photos of the church:- SO7362 : All Saints Church (1), Shelsley Beauchamp.

P L Chadwick

All Saints Church (5) - remains of old cross, Shelsley Beauchamp

All that remains of a 15th century cross, in the churchyard, is the octagonal stepped base. What is now on top of it, is a 17th century sundial, which is badly weathered. The original cross may have been removed or destroyed in the religious strife of the 16th and 17th centuries. More photos of the church:- SO7362 : All Saints Church (1), Shelsley Beauchamp.

P L Chadwick

The road from Shelsley Beauchamp to New Mill Bridge

This minor road was photographed from the churchyard of All Saints Church, Shelsley Beauchamp.

P L Chadwick

The Shelsleys Village Hall, Shelsley Beauchamp

The hall serves the residents of the three villages of Shelsley Beauchamp, Shelsley Kings and Shelsley Walsh. As can be seen, the hall has recently celebrated its 50th anniversary.

P L Chadwick

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Hamcastle Plantation is located at Grid Ref: SO7261 (Lat: 52.252026, Lng: -2.4067741)

Administrative County: Worcestershire

District: Malvern Hills

Police Authority: West Mercia