Broom Copse

Wood, Forest in Wiltshire

England

Broom Copse

The A345 is closed, Oare Hill The wording on the vehicle suggests that tree felling is going on, probably dead Ash. — The A345 is closed, Oare Hill Credit: Robin Webster

Broom Copse is a picturesque wood located in the county of Wiltshire, England. Situated near the village of Broom, the copse covers an area of approximately 100 acres and is a popular destination for nature enthusiasts and outdoor enthusiasts alike.

The copse is primarily composed of a mix of broadleaf and coniferous trees, creating a diverse and vibrant woodland ecosystem. Ancient oaks, beech, and ash trees are scattered throughout, providing a rich habitat for a variety of wildlife. The forest floor is adorned with an array of plants, including bluebells, primroses, and wild garlic, which create a beautiful carpet of color during the spring months.

Traversing through Broom Copse, visitors can explore a network of well-maintained footpaths and trails, offering opportunities for walking, jogging, and cycling. The peaceful atmosphere and tranquil surroundings make it an ideal place for relaxation and nature observation. Many visitors bring binoculars to spot the copse's resident bird species, such as woodpeckers, thrushes, and warblers.

Broom Copse also holds historical significance, as it is believed to have been used for centuries as a source of timber and firewood. Remnants of old charcoal pits can still be seen in certain areas, providing a glimpse into the copse's past.

Overall, Broom Copse is a captivating woodland in Wiltshire, offering a haven of natural beauty, recreational activities, and a fascinating history for visitors to discover and enjoy.

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Broom Copse Images

Images are sourced within 2km of 51.387362/-1.7686965 or Grid Reference SU1665. Thanks to Geograph Open Source API. All images are credited.

The A345 is closed, Oare Hill

The wording on the vehicle suggests that tree felling is going on, probably dead Ash.

Robin Webster

Foxbury Copse, West Woods

Bluebells and a track within Foxbury Copse (part of West Woods).

Rebecca A Wills

Wools Grove, West Woods

Bluebells in Wools Grove, within West Woods.

Rebecca A Wills

Access track to West Woods car park

Woodland managed by Forestry England.

David Martin

Shady picnic tables at West Woods car park

David Martin

Dappled sunlight, West Woods

West Woods are a large area of ancient woodland which at one time may have been joined to Savernake Forest. This might be ancient woodland recorded for 400 years or so, but one would have to search long and hard for any really ancient trees.

Gordon Hatton

Track in West Woods

This track is shown as a 'BOAT' on OS maps and is also the course of the Wansdyke Path. The Wansdyke is off picture to the left and is quite insignificant at this point.

Gordon Hatton

Slight remains of Wansdyke

The low mount surmounted by trees marks the Wansdyke bank, but the ditch to the right has largely disappeared thanks to some 1500 years of slow infill. The Wansdyke still has an air of mystery. Who built it and why? It appears to be post Roman in date as at one point it crosses a Roman Road, whilst the ditch is on the north side, which suggests that if it was a defensive line, then it was defending land to the south.

Gordon Hatton

Path towards West Woods

Bridleway which is probably part of an old route from Huish to Lockeridge and is now part of the White Horse Trail.

Gordon Hatton

Clearing in Hursley Bottom

A clearing in West Woods, complete with picnic table.

Gordon Hatton

Downland view

Looking north of west near the crest of the Downs on a fine path which is part of the Tan Hill Way.

Gordon Hatton

Path junction near Huish Hill House

Farm access tracks and alternative paths. A footpath leads off to the right whilst a bridleway, which is part of the Tan Hill way goes ahead and to the left.

Gordon Hatton

Farmland and woodland

Looking north from near the top of Oare Hill across recently tilled arable land towards West Woods. On the distant skyline can be seen the beech clumps on Hackpen Hill.

Gordon Hatton

View from the west side of Martinsell Hill

View from the White Horse Trail path that runs along the western edge of Martinsell Hill. The view is out towards the Giant's Grave, which has nothing to do with either giants or graves, but is more likely to be a defended settlement site. Some wet weather out in the vale.

Gordon Hatton