Black Maria Plantation

Wood, Forest in Staffordshire South Staffordshire

England

Black Maria Plantation

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. — St Mary's church, Patshull Credit: Mike Searle

Black Maria Plantation is a woodland located in Staffordshire, England. Situated in the heart of the county, it covers an area of approximately 200 acres and is known for its breathtaking natural beauty. The plantation is predominantly composed of dense, ancient oak trees, which gives it a distinctive and enchanting atmosphere.

The woodland is a haven for a wide variety of plant and animal species, making it a popular destination for nature enthusiasts and wildlife photographers. The diverse range of flora includes bluebells, wild garlic, and ferns, which carpet the forest floor during springtime, creating a picturesque scene. The towering oak trees provide a habitat for numerous bird species, including woodpeckers, owls, and various songbirds.

The plantation is also home to several walking trails, allowing visitors to fully immerse themselves in the tranquility of the forest. These trails wind through the woodland, offering breathtaking views of the surrounding countryside and providing opportunities for both leisurely strolls and more challenging hikes.

Black Maria Plantation has a rich history, with records dating back several centuries. It was originally part of an extensive estate owned by a local noble family, but in modern times, it has been managed by the Staffordshire Wildlife Trust, who ensure its preservation and accessibility for the public. The trust organizes various educational programs and events, allowing visitors to learn more about the woodland's ecosystem and conservation efforts.

Overall, Black Maria Plantation is a captivating woodland in Staffordshire, offering visitors the chance to experience the beauty of nature while enjoying its rich history and diverse wildlife.

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Black Maria Plantation Images

Images are sourced within 2km of 52.605345/-2.268139 or Grid Reference SJ8100. Thanks to Geograph Open Source API. All images are credited.

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

St Mary's church, Patshull - table-tomb of Sir John Astley & wife (detail 1)

Mike Searle

St Mary's church, Patshull - table-tomb of Sir John Astley & wife (detail 2)

Mike Searle

St Mary's church, Patshull - wall monument to Sir Richard Astley & wives (detail 1)

Sir Richard Astley (†1687).

Mike Searle

St Mary's church, Patshull - wall monument to Sir Richard Astley & wives (detail 2)

Henrietta Astley.

Mike Searle

St Mary's church, Patshull - wall monument to Sir Richard Astley & wives (detail 3)

Elizabeth Astley.

Mike Searle

The Horns of Boningale

Much extended 18th century inn on the Holyhead road.

John M

2014 Pattingham Bells cross country race

Emerging from The Beeches spinney, on a cool but bright October morning. The race started life 25 years ago to help raise money for the restoration of the Pattingham church bells, and having achieved that aim, is now a popular event on the local running scene. It's great fun, to boot.

Richard Law

2014 Pattingham Bells cross country race

Heading along a field-edge track beside Pattingham Lane. Funny how none of the fellas running suggested to the young lady in midshot that she should pull her leggings up a little... but sadly a sympathetic female runner eventually did.

Richard Law

2014 Pattingham Bells cross country race

Runners descending towards one of the fishing pools beside the road abov Boningale on the 25th occasion of the Pattingham Bells 7-mile cross country race.

Richard Law

2014 Pattingham Bells cross country race

Ascending a nasty little rise under the pylons behind Boningale; this is the 25th anniversary of the Pattingham Bells run, which started life as a fundraiser for the restoration of the bells in Pattingham church, and is now a firm favourite local race.

Richard Law

Runners coming into Hawks Well cottage garden

Part of the 2014 Pattingham Bells 7-mile cross country race; here, after a footpath section from Boningale, the route drops back into the woods of the Scotts Bank plantation behind me.

Richard Law