Big Wood

Wood, Forest in Wiltshire

England

Big Wood

A walk around Beacon Hill [5] The hillfort of Oliver's Castle, seen from the edge of Beacon Hill. The hillfort is a scheduled ancient monument see <span class="nowrap"><a title="https://historicengland.org.uk/listing/the-list/list-entry/1005709" rel="nofollow ugc noopener" href="https://historicengland.org.uk/listing/the-list/list-entry/1005709">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> and the down is on the register of historic battlefields see <span class="nowrap"><a title="https://historicengland.org.uk/listing/the-list/list-entry/1000030" rel="nofollow ugc noopener" href="https://historicengland.org.uk/listing/the-list/list-entry/1000030">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>
This short walk takes in Oliver’s Castle, an Iron Age hill fort, the former road to Bath, and the lower slopes of Beacon Hill which became known as Bloody Ditch when, after the battle of Roundway Down, the Parliamentary cavalry, in full retreat, rode over the edge to their death.
A walk around Beacon Hill [5] Credit: Michael Dibb

Big Wood is a large forest located in the county of Wiltshire, England. It stretches across an area of approximately 500 acres, making it one of the largest woodlands in the region. The woodland is situated on the outskirts of a small village, surrounded by picturesque countryside.

The forest is predominantly composed of deciduous trees, such as oak, beech, and ash, which create a dense canopy that provides shelter for a wide variety of flora and fauna. The forest floor is covered in a thick layer of leaf litter, creating a natural habitat for many small mammals, including voles, shrews, and rabbits.

The wood is crisscrossed with a network of footpaths, allowing visitors to explore its beauty and tranquility. These paths lead through ancient woodlands, revealing stunning vistas and hidden glades. Big Wood is a popular destination for nature lovers, hikers, and birdwatchers, offering a peaceful retreat from the hustle and bustle of nearby towns and cities.

The forest is also home to a diverse range of bird species, including woodpeckers, owls, and various migratory birds. Birdwatchers are often drawn to the woodland to observe and listen to the melodious songs of these feathered inhabitants.

Big Wood has a rich history, with evidence of human activity dating back centuries. Archaeological discoveries have uncovered remnants of ancient settlements and burial mounds within the woodland, providing a glimpse into the lives of those who once inhabited the area.

In conclusion, Big Wood in Wiltshire is a vast forest that offers a haven for nature enthusiasts, boasting diverse flora and fauna, scenic landscapes, and a rich historical background.

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Big Wood Images

Images are sourced within 2km of 51.372679/-2.0253933 or Grid Reference ST9863. Thanks to Geograph Open Source API. All images are credited.

A walk around Beacon Hill [5] The hillfort of Oliver's Castle, seen from the edge of Beacon Hill. The hillfort is a scheduled ancient monument see <span class="nowrap"><a title="https://historicengland.org.uk/listing/the-list/list-entry/1005709" rel="nofollow ugc noopener" href="https://historicengland.org.uk/listing/the-list/list-entry/1005709">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> and the down is on the register of historic battlefields see <span class="nowrap"><a title="https://historicengland.org.uk/listing/the-list/list-entry/1000030" rel="nofollow ugc noopener" href="https://historicengland.org.uk/listing/the-list/list-entry/1000030">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>
This short walk takes in Oliver’s Castle, an Iron Age hill fort, the former road to Bath, and the lower slopes of Beacon Hill which became known as Bloody Ditch when, after the battle of Roundway Down, the Parliamentary cavalry, in full retreat, rode over the edge to their death.
A walk around Beacon Hill [5]
The hillfort of Oliver's Castle, seen from the edge of Beacon Hill. The hillfort is a scheduled ancient monument see LinkExternal link and the down is on the register of historic battlefields see LinkExternal link This short walk takes in Oliver’s Castle, an Iron Age hill fort, the former road to Bath, and the lower slopes of Beacon Hill which became known as Bloody Ditch when, after the battle of Roundway Down, the Parliamentary cavalry, in full retreat, rode over the edge to their death.
Oliver's Castle seen from the towpath of the Kennet and Avon Canal Seen from the towpath of the Kennet and Avon Canal is the Iron Age hillfort of Oliver's Castle on Roundway Down.  Roundway Down was the site of a major battle in 1643 during the civil war.  The down is a prominent feature and is visible over a large area. The hillfort is a scheduled ancient monument see <span class="nowrap"><a title="https://historicengland.org.uk/listing/the-list/list-entry/1005709" rel="nofollow ugc noopener" href="https://historicengland.org.uk/listing/the-list/list-entry/1005709">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> and the down is on the register of historic battlefields see <span class="nowrap"><a title="https://historicengland.org.uk/listing/the-list/list-entry/1000030" rel="nofollow ugc noopener" href="https://historicengland.org.uk/listing/the-list/list-entry/1000030">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>
Oliver's Castle seen from the towpath of the Kennet and Avon Canal
Seen from the towpath of the Kennet and Avon Canal is the Iron Age hillfort of Oliver's Castle on Roundway Down. Roundway Down was the site of a major battle in 1643 during the civil war. The down is a prominent feature and is visible over a large area. The hillfort is a scheduled ancient monument see LinkExternal link and the down is on the register of historic battlefields see LinkExternal link
A walk around Bromham [4] Seen from near the village of Bromham is the Iron Age hillfort of Oliver's Castle on Roundway Down.  Roundway Down was the site of a major battle in 1643 during the civil war.  The down is a prominent feature and is visible over a large area. The hillfort is a scheduled ancient monument see <span class="nowrap"><a title="https://historicengland.org.uk/listing/the-list/list-entry/1005709" rel="nofollow ugc noopener" href="https://historicengland.org.uk/listing/the-list/list-entry/1005709">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> and the down is on the register of historic battlefields see <span class="nowrap"><a title="https://historicengland.org.uk/listing/the-list/list-entry/1000030" rel="nofollow ugc noopener" href="https://historicengland.org.uk/listing/the-list/list-entry/1000030">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>
A walk around Bromham [4]
Seen from near the village of Bromham is the Iron Age hillfort of Oliver's Castle on Roundway Down. Roundway Down was the site of a major battle in 1643 during the civil war. The down is a prominent feature and is visible over a large area. The hillfort is a scheduled ancient monument see LinkExternal link and the down is on the register of historic battlefields see LinkExternal link
A walk around Bromham [17] Seen from near Bromham House Farm, the Iron Age hillfort of Oliver's Castle on Roundway Down.  Roundway Down was the site of a major battle in 1643 during the civil war.  The down is a prominent feature and is visible over a large area. The hillfort is a scheduled ancient monument see <span class="nowrap"><a title="https://historicengland.org.uk/listing/the-list/list-entry/1005709" rel="nofollow ugc noopener" href="https://historicengland.org.uk/listing/the-list/list-entry/1005709">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> and the down is on the register of historic battlefields see <span class="nowrap"><a title="https://historicengland.org.uk/listing/the-list/list-entry/1000030" rel="nofollow ugc noopener" href="https://historicengland.org.uk/listing/the-list/list-entry/1000030">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>
From the car park in front of the Greyhound public house, the route leads through fields and along Highfield to cross the A342 road. The next path leads past Bromham House Farm to Turnpike Farm and on to Wick Farm. Then paths through fields to Chittoe Heath and along minor roads to Nonsuch Nurseries. Another path through fields leads to a surfaced path at the edge of Wyatt’s Wood, this leads to the High Street and back to the starting point. Almost exactly 4 miles.
A walk around Bromham [17]
Seen from near Bromham House Farm, the Iron Age hillfort of Oliver's Castle on Roundway Down. Roundway Down was the site of a major battle in 1643 during the civil war. The down is a prominent feature and is visible over a large area. The hillfort is a scheduled ancient monument see LinkExternal link and the down is on the register of historic battlefields see LinkExternal link From the car park in front of the Greyhound public house, the route leads through fields and along Highfield to cross the A342 road. The next path leads past Bromham House Farm to Turnpike Farm and on to Wick Farm. Then paths through fields to Chittoe Heath and along minor roads to Nonsuch Nurseries. Another path through fields leads to a surfaced path at the edge of Wyatt’s Wood, this leads to the High Street and back to the starting point. Almost exactly 4 miles.
A walk around Bromham [45] Seen from near Bromham, is the Iron Age hillfort of Oliver's Castle on Roundway Down.  Roundway Down was the site of a major battle in 1643 during the civil war.  The down is a prominent feature and is visible over a large area. The hillfort is a scheduled ancient monument see <span class="nowrap"><a title="https://historicengland.org.uk/listing/the-list/list-entry/1005709" rel="nofollow ugc noopener" href="https://historicengland.org.uk/listing/the-list/list-entry/1005709">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> and the down is on the register of historic battlefields see <span class="nowrap"><a title="https://historicengland.org.uk/listing/the-list/list-entry/1000030" rel="nofollow ugc noopener" href="https://historicengland.org.uk/listing/the-list/list-entry/1000030">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>
A walk around Bromham [45]
Seen from near Bromham, is the Iron Age hillfort of Oliver's Castle on Roundway Down. Roundway Down was the site of a major battle in 1643 during the civil war. The down is a prominent feature and is visible over a large area. The hillfort is a scheduled ancient monument see LinkExternal link and the down is on the register of historic battlefields see LinkExternal link
Site of Oliver's Castle hill fort, looking south
Site of Oliver's Castle hill fort, looking south
Jubilee Woods, Wiltshire Looking from Jubilee Woods, over pasture land to Oliver's Castle and Beacon Hill in the distance.
Jubilee Woods, Wiltshire
Looking from Jubilee Woods, over pasture land to Oliver's Castle and Beacon Hill in the distance.
A walk around Beacon Hill [7] Gates at the junction of the bridleway and footpath on the lower slopes of Beacon Hill.
This short walk takes in Oliver’s Castle, an Iron Age hill fort, the former road to Bath, and the lower slopes of Beacon Hill which became known as Bloody Ditch when, after the battle of Roundway Down, the Parliamentary cavalry, in full retreat, rode over the edge to their death.
A walk around Beacon Hill [7]
Gates at the junction of the bridleway and footpath on the lower slopes of Beacon Hill. This short walk takes in Oliver’s Castle, an Iron Age hill fort, the former road to Bath, and the lower slopes of Beacon Hill which became known as Bloody Ditch when, after the battle of Roundway Down, the Parliamentary cavalry, in full retreat, rode over the edge to their death.
A walk around Beacon Hill [8] From the lower slopes of Beacon Hill is this view over farmland, looking in the direction of Devizes.
This short walk takes in Oliver’s Castle, an Iron Age hill fort, the former road to Bath, and the lower slopes of Beacon Hill which became known as Bloody Ditch when, after the battle of Roundway Down, the Parliamentary cavalry, in full retreat, rode over the edge to their death.
A walk around Beacon Hill [8]
From the lower slopes of Beacon Hill is this view over farmland, looking in the direction of Devizes. This short walk takes in Oliver’s Castle, an Iron Age hill fort, the former road to Bath, and the lower slopes of Beacon Hill which became known as Bloody Ditch when, after the battle of Roundway Down, the Parliamentary cavalry, in full retreat, rode over the edge to their death.
Rowde, St Matthew
Rowde, St Matthew
Farmland, Bromham Wheat beside a footpath to the east of Moorhouse Farm.
Farmland, Bromham
Wheat beside a footpath to the east of Moorhouse Farm.
Ford on Summerham Brook at Rowde.  This dry ford can be seen in flood on this video:
<span class="nowrap"><a title="https://youtu.be/MpLLbC4Xxlg" rel="nofollow ugc noopener" href="https://youtu.be/MpLLbC4Xxlg">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>
Ford on Summerham Brook at Rowde.
This dry ford can be seen in flood on this video: LinkExternal link
Rowde : St Edith's Marsh A342 Looking along the road.
Rowde : St Edith's Marsh A342
Looking along the road.
Rowde : Road A road off the A342 to Chillstone House.
Rowde : Road
A road off the A342 to Chillstone House.
Rowde : Road A road into Rowdeford School.
Rowde : Road
A road into Rowdeford School.
Bromham : St Edith's Marsh A342 Looking along the road.
Bromham : St Edith's Marsh A342
Looking along the road.
Bromham : St Edith's Marsh A342 Looking along a wet road.
Bromham : St Edith's Marsh A342
Looking along a wet road.
Farmland and forest below Roundway Hill Most of this grid square is either forested or planted with crops as shown in this image.
Farmland and forest below Roundway Hill
Most of this grid square is either forested or planted with crops as shown in this image.
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Big Wood is located at Grid Ref: ST9863 (Lat: 51.372679, Lng: -2.0253933)

Unitary Authority: Wiltshire

Police Authority: Wiltshire

What 3 Words

///ashes.yesterday.skinning. Near Rowde, Wiltshire

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Big Wood

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Nearby Amenities

Located within 500m of 51.372679,-2.0253933
Power: tower
Source: Bing
Lat/Long: 51.3684764/-2.0235729
The data included in this document is from www.openstreetmap.org. The data is made available under ODbL.

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