Duckpond Plantation

Wood, Forest in Dorset

England

Duckpond Plantation

Coombe Keynes hamlet [1] East Coombe Farmhouse was probably built in the early 19th century in two builds. Constructed of brick with a stone gable wall, under a tile roof.
There are various lean-to later extensions. Listed, grade II, with details at: <span class="nowrap"><a title="https://historicengland.org.uk/listing/the-list/list-entry/1172277" rel="nofollow ugc noopener" href="https://historicengland.org.uk/listing/the-list/list-entry/1172277">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>
Coombe Keynes is a hamlet, and depopulated village in Dorset, some 1½ miles south of Wool and about 5 miles southwest of Wareham. Extensive settlement remains have been found by excavation to the east of the church, indicating that once there were many more buildings. The area of earthworks, extending to some 20 acres, is a Scheduled Ancient Monument with details at: <span class="nowrap"><a title="https://historicengland.org.uk/listing/the-list/list-entry/1017260" rel="nofollow ugc noopener" href="https://historicengland.org.uk/listing/the-list/list-entry/1017260">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> — Coombe Keynes hamlet [1] Credit: Michael Dibb

Duckpond Plantation is an idyllic woodland located in the county of Dorset, England. Situated just a few miles outside the charming village of Wood, this forested area spans over 200 acres, offering a tranquil retreat for nature enthusiasts and outdoor lovers.

The plantation gets its name from the picturesque duck pond that lies at its heart, serving as a focal point for both wildlife and visitors alike. Surrounded by a lush canopy of indigenous trees, including towering oaks, beech, and birch, the plantation boasts a diverse ecosystem that supports an array of plant and animal species.

Walking trails meander through the woodland, allowing visitors to explore the plantation's scenic beauty at their own pace. These well-maintained paths lead through enchanting groves, where sunlight filters through the foliage, creating a magical atmosphere. Along the way, one may encounter a variety of wildlife, such as deer, squirrels, and a plethora of bird species that call the plantation home.

Duckpond Plantation also offers numerous recreational activities, catering to all ages and interests. Families can enjoy picnics by the pond, while children can partake in nature-themed scavenger hunts or tree-climbing adventures. The forest is also a popular spot for birdwatching, photography, and simply unwinding amidst nature's serenity.

With its picturesque setting and abundant natural beauty, Duckpond Plantation is a cherished gem in the Dorset countryside. Whether seeking a peaceful walk, a family outing, or a chance to connect with the great outdoors, this woodland sanctuary provides an unforgettable experience for all who visit.

Show me another place!

If you have any feedback on the listing, please let us know in the comments section below.

Duckpond Plantation Images

Images are sourced within 2km of 50.658565/-2.2095383 or Grid Reference SY8584. Thanks to Geograph Open Source API. All images are credited.

Coombe Keynes hamlet [1]

East Coombe Farmhouse was probably built in the early 19th century in two builds. Constructed of brick with a stone gable wall, under a tile roof. There are various lean-to later extensions. Listed, grade II, with details at: Link

Coombe Keynes is a hamlet, and depopulated village in Dorset, some 1½ miles south of Wool and about 5 miles southwest of Wareham. Extensive settlement remains have been found by excavation to the east of the church, indicating that once there were many more buildings. The area of earthworks, extending to some 20 acres, is a Scheduled Ancient Monument with details at: Link

Michael Dibb

Coombe Keynes hamlet [2]

This early 19th century boundary wall, east of East Coombe Farmhouse, is constructed of brick and stone, with tiled capping. There is a similar, but lower wall in front of the house. Listed, for group value, grade II, with details at: Link

Michael Dibb

Coombe Keynes hamlet [3]

Dairy Barn is a barn and other farm buildings converted into a house. The main building is probably late 18th century. Constructed of rubble stone with brick dressings, quoins and buttresses, all under a slate roof with stone eaves courses. A lean-to with a catslide roof has pigeonholes. Listed, grade II, with details at: Link

Michael Dibb

Coombe Keynes hamlet [4]

The curiously named Odd Nod is a cottage in a terrace, probably built in the early 19th century. Constructed of rubble stone with brick dressings under a thatch roof. Some original internal features remain. Listed, grade II, with details at: Link

Michael Dibb

Coombe Keynes hamlet [5]

The curiously named Mini Nod is a cottage in a terrace, probably built in the early 19th century. Constructed of rubble stone with brick dressings under a thatch roof. Some original internal features remain. Listed, grade II, with details at: Link

Michael Dibb

Coombe Keynes hamlet [6]

The curiously named Cuckoo Nod is a cottage in a terrace, probably built in the early 19th century. Constructed of rubble stone with brick dressings under a thatch roof. A single-storey extension is of brick under a tile roof. Some original internal features remain. Listed, grade II, with details at: Link

Michael Dibb

Coombe Keynes hamlet [7]

The centre of the hamlet has this delightful small green, complete with a shady seat. Listed, grade II, with details at: Link

Michael Dibb

Coombe Keynes hamlet [8]

Numbers 7 and 8 Main Street, were originally built in the 17th century and converted to two cottages in the 19th century. Constructed of rubble stone, partly roughcast, under a thatch roof. The extension on the right is of brick under a tile roof. Some windows are horizontally sliding sashes. Listed, grade II, with details at: Link

Michael Dibb

Coombe Keynes hamlet [9]

The Longhouse, nearer the camera, and Carter Barn, were originally built in the 16th century and altered in the early 17th century and in the 18th. The Longhouse is constructed of brick and stone, raised in plastered cob, all under a thatch roof. Long-house plan with byre at west end, cross-passage, hall and inner room - all originally open to roof. Originally an attached barn to The Longhouse, now a private house, Carters Barn has a stone front wall, and had a series of brick piers on the north, carrying the thatch roof. Listed, grade II, with details at: Link

Michael Dibb

Coombe Keynes hamlet [10]

West Coombe Farmhouse Front has a 17th century wing at the rear and a 19th century wing. The front wing is of stone, plastered on the gable to the street. The rear wing is of brick on a stone base, raised in plastered cob. Both wings have slate roofs. Some original internal features remain. Listed, grade II, with details at: Link

Michael Dibb

Coombe Keynes hamlet [11]

Glimpsed behind its hedge, April Thatch is an 18th century detached cottage, largely reconstructed in the late 20th century. Constructed of plastered stone under a thatch roof. Listed, grade II, with details at: Link

Michael Dibb