Druid's Head Wood

Wood, Forest in Wiltshire

England

Druid's Head Wood

Farmland, Winterbourne Stoke Wheat beside a line of beeches, which are marked on the 1:25000 Ordnance Survey map. — Farmland, Winterbourne Stoke Credit: Andrew Smith

Druid's Head Wood is a picturesque woodland located in the county of Wiltshire, England. Situated near the village of West Ashton, this ancient forest covers an area of approximately 56 acres, making it a haven for nature lovers and outdoor enthusiasts.

The wood gets its intriguing name from a distinctive tree stump that resembles the head of a druid, a mystical figure from Celtic folklore. The stump is believed to have been carved by human hands centuries ago, adding an air of mystery and enchantment to the woodland.

Druid's Head Wood is primarily composed of a mixed deciduous tree canopy, including oak, ash, beech, and birch trees. The forest floor is carpeted with a diverse range of flora, including bluebells, wood anemones, and wild garlic, creating a vibrant and colorful display during the spring months.

The woodland is a designated Site of Special Scientific Interest (SSSI) due to its ecological importance. It provides a habitat for a variety of wildlife, including deer, badgers, foxes, and numerous bird species. The forest's tranquil atmosphere also attracts birdwatchers who come to observe species such as woodpeckers, buzzards, and owls.

Visitors to Druid's Head Wood can explore the network of footpaths that crisscross the forest, offering opportunities for leisurely walks and nature trails. The wood is particularly popular among families who enjoy picnicking, wildlife spotting, and immersing themselves in the serene surroundings.

Overall, Druid's Head Wood is a charming and captivating woodland that showcases the natural beauty and biodiversity of Wiltshire, providing a tranquil escape from the hustle and bustle of everyday life.

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Druid's Head Wood Images

Images are sourced within 2km of 51.146152/-1.8801802 or Grid Reference SU0838. Thanks to Geograph Open Source API. All images are credited.

Farmland, Winterbourne Stoke

Wheat beside a line of beeches, which are marked on the 1:25000 Ordnance Survey map.

Andrew Smith

Track on Oatlands Hill

The restricted byway descending to the A360.

Andrew Smith

Farm road, Winterbourne Stoke

The byway at Oatlands Farm heading towards Hill Farm (in the trees). Fields of rape and wheat.

Andrew Smith

Cows on Horse Down

With cereal fields beyond descending to Winterbourne Stoke.

Andrew Smith

Brown hare near Berwick St James, Wiltshire

One of several of these beautiful creatures about this morning, this one is enjoying the warmth of the early morning sun. More about Lepus europaeus here Link

Brian Robert Marshall

Farm track, near Winterbourne Stoke, Wiltshire

The trees are beeches and the crop is oilseed rape. Winterbourne Stoke lies away to the west straddling the A303.

Brian Robert Marshall

Farmland near Winterbourne Stoke, Wiltshire

The field in the foreground was being used as a playground by a number of brown hares and some rabbits. Beyond the fence is a crop of ripening oilseed rape.

Brian Robert Marshall

Sunrise near Winterbourne Stoke, Wiltshire

In the foreground is a crop of wheat. This image was obtained five minutes after sunrise was predicted to occur.

Brian Robert Marshall

Hares in a field near Winterbourne Stoke

There are three of these handsome animals in this image.

Brian Robert Marshall

The Church of St James, Berwick St James

The church has its origins in the 12th century with restoration taking place in 1871. It is built of limestone and flint.

Maigheach-gheal

Tombstone, St James's Churchyard

The tombstone is 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.

Maigheach-gheal

Detail, St James's Church

The eagle is a symbol of the resurrection or ascension of Christ due to the fact that it soars upwards. By extension, the eagle symbolises baptised Christians, who have symbolically died and risen with Christ.

Maigheach-gheal

The Boot Inn, Berwick St James

An attractive stone and flint village local built in the 17th century and altered in the 1890's. It is Grade II listed and has a traditional unspoilt interior. There is an Ordnance Survey bench mark on the north west angle of the building.

Maigheach-gheal

Bench Mark, The Boot Inn

The bench mark is to be found on the north west angle of the building. For a view of the building SU0739 : The Boot Inn, Berwick St James and for further information on the bench mark and others in the area Link

Maigheach-gheal

Bench Mark, St James's Church

On the northwest angle of the church tower is an Ordnance Survey bench mark. For a view of the church SU0739 : Berwick St James Church and for further information on the bench mark and others in the area Link

Maigheach-gheal

The Boot Inn, Berwick St James

Stuart Logan

B3083 passes The Boot Inn

Here's another view of this Grade II listed pub. Although it dates from the 17th C. it was altered during 1890's but still warrants English Heritage Building ID: 320447.

Stuart Logan