Hangings Copse

Wood, Forest in Wiltshire

England

Hangings Copse

Grassland, Chute The eastern flank of Shaw Bottom. — Grassland, Chute Credit: Andrew Smith

Hangings Copse is a picturesque woodland located in the county of Wiltshire, England. Covering an area of approximately 30 acres, it is nestled within the rolling hills and lush green fields of the region. The copse is predominantly composed of native broadleaf trees such as oak, beech, and ash, creating a rich and diverse ecosystem.

The name "Hangings Copse" is derived from its historical association with the practice of hangings during medieval times. It is believed that the woodland was once used as a site for public executions, hence the rather macabre name. However, no evidence of these events remains, and the copse has long since been transformed into a tranquil and peaceful retreat.

The woodland is crisscrossed by a network of meandering footpaths, making it a popular destination for walkers, hikers, and nature enthusiasts. The paths wind through the dense undergrowth and lead visitors to secluded clearings, where one can enjoy a picnic or simply relax in the serene surroundings.

Hangings Copse is teeming with wildlife, providing a habitat for a variety of species. Birdwatchers can delight in the sight of woodpeckers, thrushes, and owls, while mammal lovers may spot rabbits, foxes, and deer. In spring, the copse is carpeted with bluebells, creating a breathtaking display of color and fragrance.

The copse is easily accessible, with a small parking area nearby, and is open to the public year-round. It offers a peaceful escape from the hustle and bustle of modern life, allowing visitors to immerse themselves in the beauty of nature. Hangings Copse is a true gem of Wiltshire, inviting locals and tourists alike to experience the tranquility and natural splendor it has to offer.

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Hangings Copse Images

Images are sourced within 2km of 51.283875/-1.6011547 or Grid Reference SU2753. Thanks to Geograph Open Source API. All images are credited.

Grassland, Chute

The eastern flank of Shaw Bottom.

Andrew Smith

Farmland, Chute

With the bridleway heading south from Chantry.

Andrew Smith

Farmland, Collingbourne Kingston

Buildings at Gammon's Farm and the northern tip of Rag Copse seen across a field of barley.

Andrew Smith

Line of trees leading to Stert Copse

A thin line of trees dividing the fields and providing a corridor between two copses.

David Martin

Edge of Fairoak Copse

Taken just as the footpath emerges from the woodland and continues southwards along the edge of the field.

David Martin

Grass and woodland at Coldridge Bottom

David Martin

Limmer Pond

This double pond dates back many centuries and the sense of its antiquity is very apparent. Lying close to several droving routes and the Roman Road known as Chute Causeway, the ponds here were no doubt important watering holes for cattle as they were driven across the downland.

James Harrison

White Lane

This byway leads past Gammons Farm towards Chute Causeway. Walking through here in May, one is aware of the smell of wild garlic growing in the woods.

Gordon Hatton

White Lane towards Gammon's Farm

White Lane is a byway and probably an ancient route, but one which was never tarmac surfaced.

Gordon Hatton

Track on Shaw Down

This track leaves White Lane and gradually descends towards Shaw Bottom. This must be one of the quietest areas in the whole of southern England and seems remote from towns.

Gordon Hatton

Track to Shaw Bottom

The track descends into a typical downland dry valley, now completely deserted. At the bottom, in the gap between the woodland once stood Shaw Farm, now long since disappeared. My long lost great aunt - Eleanor Susan Hatton was employed here as a servant aged 14 in 1891. She must have walked this track many times.

Gordon Hatton

Cutting a corner

The rising track from Shaw Bottom towards Gammon's Farm cuts the corner of this grid square for a short distance.

Gordon Hatton

The site of Shaw Farm

This is the site of the former Shaw Farm, deep in the recesses of Shaw Bottom, a typical downland dry valley. A farm is known to have existed here in 1773 and the area may once have been the site of a larger settlement. The farm burned down in the 1940's and one can imagine that it would have been extremely difficult to bring fire fighting equipment to this site, or finding sufficient water. My personal interest here goes back to the 1891 census, when a long lost great aunt, Eleanor Susan Hatton, was a servant girl employed here aged 14. Beyond that date there is no trace of her. There is no trace of any foundations on the ground, although to the right of the fence is a pile of rubble containing bricks etc. Doubtful if these are from the farmhouse as they are 'factory' brick.

Gordon Hatton

Track at Shaw Bottom

One of the many green lanes and trackways in the area between Upper Chute and Collingbourne Ducis. This bridleway is dropping into the valley bottom at the site of Shaw Farm.

Gordon Hatton

East from Bauks Hill

Rolling downland country close to the Wiltshire/Hampshire border. The view is towards Upper Chute, a few houses being visible amongst the trees.

Gordon Hatton

Path to Chantry

One of many paths, bridleways and green tracks around Chute. This one leads northwards along a broad ridge with may blossom to the right and an old timber barn to the left.

Gordon Hatton

Chantry Lane

Chantry Lane would appear to be an ancient route linking the Roman Chute Causeway with Biddesden, where there was a Roman villa. Part of the network of byways, green lanes and tracks in the area around Chute.

Gordon Hatton