West Wood

Wood, Forest in Dorset

England

West Wood

West Wood is a picturesque forest located in the county of Dorset, England. Encompassing an area of approximately 500 acres, it is a prominent natural attraction that draws visitors from near and far. The woodland is situated within the Cranborne Chase Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty, adding to its allure and popularity.

The forest is predominantly composed of ancient broadleaf trees, such as oak, beech, and ash, which lend it a distinct charm and create a rich and diverse ecosystem. The dense canopy provides shelter for a variety of wildlife, including deer, foxes, badgers, and a wide array of bird species, making it a haven for nature enthusiasts and birdwatchers alike.

West Wood offers several well-maintained walking trails that wind through its enchanting surroundings. These paths cater to all levels of fitness and are suitable for both leisurely strolls and more challenging hikes. As visitors traverse the forest, they are treated to breathtaking views of the surrounding countryside and may even stumble upon hidden gems such as tranquil ponds and ancient ruins.

In addition to its natural beauty, West Wood holds historical significance. It is believed that the forest has been in existence since at least the medieval period and has served as a valuable resource for timber and other woodland products throughout history. Today, it continues to be managed sustainably to preserve its natural heritage.

Overall, West Wood in Dorset is a captivating destination that showcases the beauty and diversity of the English countryside. It offers a tranquil escape from the hustle and bustle of modern life, providing visitors with an opportunity to immerse themselves in nature and explore a truly remarkable woodland setting.

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West Wood Images

Images are sourced within 2km of 50.779113/-2.0761988 or Grid Reference SY9497. Thanks to Geograph Open Source API. All images are credited.

The eastern end of Charborough Park wall

The famous wall of the deer park, beside the A31, one of the longest brick walls in England

David Smith

Roundabout on the A31, Sturminster Marshall

David Howard

Woodland by the A31, Sturminster Marshall

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The entrance to Vines Close Farm

David Howard

Vines Close Farm

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Old Milestone by the A350, south east of Sturminster Marshall

Carved stone post by the A350, in parish of STURMINSTER MARSHALL (EAST DORSET District), Blandford Road, 160m North of cross-roads with Station Road, in front of Burton Lux, against hedge by a row of bungalows, on West side of road. Dorset 3 (limestone), erected by the Blandford & Poole turnpike trust in the 19th century. Inscription reads:- POOLE 8 BLANDFORD 6 Milestone Society National ID: DO_POBF08.

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Old Boundary Marker by the A31, Poole Road, Sturminster Marshall parish

Turnpike Terminus Marker by the A350, in parish of Sturminster Marshall (East Dorset District), 500m south of Sturminster Marshall, centre of the roundabout where the A350 crosses the A31. Inscription reads:- : POOLE / TRUST : : BLAND- / -FORD / TRUST : Surveyed Milestone Society National ID: DO_POBF06t

Milestone Society

April Lodge, Sturminster Marshall

Roger Cornfoot

Stile and footpath, Lytchett Matravers

The footpath is part of the 13 mile, Wareham Forest Way.

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The Church of St Mary the Virgin, Lytchett Matravers

The church has its origins in the 13th century with restoration taking place in circa 1875. It is built of ironstone rubble.

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The Church of St Mary the Virgin, Lytchett Matravers

The tower is the oldest part of the church dating from the 13th century. The remainder of the church was built circa 1500.

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Footpath, Lytchett Matravers

The footpath takes walkers from the Church of St Mary the Virgin towards Peatons Farms and the main of the village.

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Lichen, The Church of St Mary the Virgin

The older gravestones are covered in lichen. Lichens do not have roots, but absorb water and gases through their upper surface, and are therefore sensitive to atmospheric pollution. For this reason they are rarely found around cities and grow best on the wetter west side of the British Isles. Those on trees thrive best on the sunny, south-west aspects of trunks and branches. Disappearance of lichen species can be used to detect rising levels of air pollution. There are three main types. The encrusting forms, including the bright orange/dark yellow 'Xanthoria' grow on roofs, walls, gravestones, signs and tree trunks. Leaf-like species develop flat lobes spreading over bark or stones, and shrubby forms which grow vertically from the ground or hang from trees. Few have common names.

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Winter Heliotrope (Petasites fragrans), Lytchett Matravers

This flower is originally from Africa. It is now naturalised and belongs to the Coltsfoot/Butterbur family. Found on the edge of the churchyard.

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Yew Tree, St Mary's Churchyard

The ancient tradition that this evergreen sheltered the first Christian missionaries to Britain before their churches were built is one of the many explanations put forward to account for the large numbers of yews found in country churchyards. The yew is also a life symbol, and was sometimes scattered on graves. The longbows of medieval archers came from straight, knot-free lengths cut from tall, selected trees. But these were unlikely to be churchyard yews – the best bow staves were imported from Spain.

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Yew Tree, St Mary's Churchyard

The European yew (Taxus baccata) has a reputation for longevity. Whilst there is no direct evidence to support the view that yew trees were associated with pagan worship it is not hard to imagine that they were. The yew, a tree symbolising longevity, death and rebirth, became woven into folklore and its association with churchyards may simply be that in certain circumstances its foliage and fruit can be poisonous and in medieval England churchyards were one of the few places fenced against stock.

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