Decoy Wood

Wood, Forest in Staffordshire South Staffordshire

England

Decoy Wood

Burnhill Green entrance sign Credit: Alex McGregor

Decoy Wood is a beautiful forest located in Staffordshire, England. Covering an area of approximately 150 acres, this woodland area is known for its natural beauty and diverse ecosystem. It is situated near the town of Rugeley, making it easily accessible for nature enthusiasts and locals alike.

The forest is predominantly made up of deciduous trees, including oak, birch, and beech, which provide a stunning display of colors during the autumn months. The woodland floor is covered in a carpet of wildflowers, creating a picturesque scene that attracts many visitors year-round.

Decoy Wood is home to a wide variety of wildlife, including birds, mammals, and insects. Birdwatchers can spot species such as woodpeckers, thrushes, and owls, while lucky visitors may catch a glimpse of deer or foxes roaming through the trees. The forest also boasts a number of well-maintained walking trails, which allow visitors to explore its natural wonders at their own pace.

In addition to its natural beauty, Decoy Wood has historical significance. It was once used as a decoy site for hunting, hence its name. In the past, hunters would use the forest to attract and trap wildfowl, taking advantage of its dense vegetation and secluded location.

Today, Decoy Wood is a protected area, managed by local authorities to ensure the preservation of its natural habitat. It is a popular destination for nature lovers, walkers, and photographers seeking to immerse themselves in the tranquility of this enchanting woodland.

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Decoy Wood Images

Images are sourced within 2km of 52.603111/-2.3000629 or Grid Reference SJ7900. Thanks to Geograph Open Source API. All images are credited.

Burnhill Green entrance sign

Alex McGregor

St Mary's church, Patshull

The church lies in the grounds of Patshull Hall, both designed by the architect James Gibbs, although the church was built first and was consecrated in 1743. The cupola on the tower was added in the C19.

Mike Searle

St Mary's church, Patshull (2)

In the foreground and unrelated to the church is one of two large stone columns either side of the entrance gates to the Patshull Hall estate. On the top of each column, also in stone, are the crumbling remains of gamecocks, set up it is said by a gambling squire, to commemorate the fact that having lost the estate by one wager, won it back again with another.

Mike Searle

St Mary's church, Patshull - Astley table-tomb and wall monument

Pre-dating the church are these two monuments that have been grouped together. The oldest is the table-tomb of Sir John Astley (†1532) whose effigy lies alongside that of his wife, whilst below and around the sides are the figures of their 15 children. Above them is the magnificent and finely sculptured wall monument to Sir Richard Astley (†1687) and his two wives Elizabeth and Henrietta. The panel below shows Sir Richard on horseback leading his troop of cavalry.

Mike Searle