The Plantation

Wood, Forest in Hampshire Basingstoke and Deane

England

The Plantation

Lay-By on the A34 Northbound Near Whitchurch. — Lay-By on the A34 Northbound Credit: Ian S

The Plantation, Hampshire, also known as Wood or Forest, is a sprawling natural area located in the county of Hampshire, England. Covering a vast expanse of land, it is renowned for its lush greenery, diverse flora and fauna, and picturesque landscapes.

The Plantation boasts a variety of trees, including oak, beech, and pine, which create a dense canopy that provides shelter and habitat for numerous animal species. The forest floor is adorned with a rich carpet of ferns, wildflowers, and mosses, adding to the area's aesthetic appeal.

Visitors to The Plantation can explore its extensive network of walking trails, which meander through the woods, offering glimpses of its enchanting beauty at every turn. These trails cater to all levels of fitness and provide opportunities for leisurely strolls, challenging hikes, or peaceful picnics.

Nature enthusiasts will find an abundance of wildlife within The Plantation. It is home to a diverse range of bird species, including woodpeckers, owls, and various songbirds, making it a haven for birdwatching enthusiasts. Additionally, small mammals such as squirrels, rabbits, and hedgehogs can often be spotted scurrying through the undergrowth.

The Plantation's serene and tranquil ambiance makes it an ideal destination for relaxation and rejuvenation. Whether it is taking a leisurely walk, capturing stunning photographs, or simply enjoying the soothing sounds of nature, visitors are sure to find solace in this natural oasis.

Overall, The Plantation, Hampshire (Wood, Forest) is a captivating natural paradise that offers a welcome escape from the hustle and bustle of everyday life. Its beauty and tranquility make it a must-visit destination for nature lovers and those seeking a peaceful retreat in the heart of Hampshire.

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The Plantation Images

Images are sourced within 2km of 51.237169/-1.3417058 or Grid Reference SU4648. Thanks to Geograph Open Source API. All images are credited.

Lay-By on the A34 Northbound

Near Whitchurch.

Ian S

A34 northbound towards Newbury

Ian S

Footbridge over the A34 northbound

Ian S

The A34 looking southbound

Steve Daniels

The A34 looking northbound

Steve Daniels

The A34 looking southbound

Steve Daniels

The A34 looking northbound

Steve Daniels

Whitchurch Silk Mill

The Whitchurch Silk Mill was founded in 1814 but had a troubled career until 1889 when it was purchased by John Hide. Originally the looms were powered by the water wheel on the right hand side of the building, which still operates. The looms currently in use utilised electrical power. For more details relating to the water wheel refer to picture SU4647 : Whitchurch Silk Mill water wheel plaque.

Len Williams

Whitchurch Silk Mill water wheel plaque

This plaque next to the water wheel at the Whitchurch silk mill explains the operation of the wheel which was used to power the looms and other machinery in the mill. For a view of the wheel refer to picture SU4647 : Whitchurch Silk Mill, water wheel.

Len Williams

Whitchurch Silk Mill, water wheel

Visitor access to the water wheel at the Whitchurch silk mill is restricted as the wheel is still in operation. This view is through one of the viewing ports and shows the wheel on the right and a speed governor on the left. For a view of the rear of the mill refer to picture SU4647 : Whitchurch Silk Mill and River Test.

Len Williams

Whitchurch Silk Mill and River Test

This view of the rear of the silk mill at Whitchurch shows how the mill stands on an island in the River Test. The left branch drives the water wheel which for many years provided the motive power to the weaving machinery on the top floor of the mill. For details of the mill's recent history refer to picture SU4647 : Whitchurch Silk Mill, history plaque.

Len Williams

Whitchurch Silk Mill, history plaque

This plaque in the Whitchurch silk mill details the operation of the mill following the purchase by the Hide family. Most of the looms are still operative but are retained as museum pieces however there is a 'modern' electrically powered loom which still produces woven silk. For views of the machinery refer to picture SU4647 : Whitchurch Silk Mill bobbin winders.

Len Williams

Whitchurch Silk Mill bobbin winders

This is the machine which takes the dyed silk on the skeins and winds them onto the bobbins for use in the looms. The machine is driven from a belt feed powered by the water wheel outside the mill. Refer to picture SU4647 : Whitchurch Silk Mill, shuttlecocks for the machine.

Len Williams

Whitchurch Silk Mill, shuttlecocks

This machine at the Whitchurch silk mill transfers the silk from the bobbins onto the shuttlecocks which can then be applied to the looms. For a view of a loom refer to picture SU4647 : Whitchurch Silk Mill, loom.

Len Williams

Whitchurch Silk Mill, loom

This is one of the old looms at the Whitchurch silk mill and shows how the weaver would overview the operation of the shuttlecock as it criss-crosses through the lengths of silk. For a view of a manual loom refer to picture SU4647 : Whitchurch Silk Mill, manual loom.

Len Williams

Whitchurch Silk Mill, manual loom

This a manual loom at the Whitchurch silk mill. For a view of a 'modern' loom refer to picture SU4647 : Whitchurch Silk Mill, modern loom.

Len Williams

Whitchurch Silk Mill, modern loom

An electrically powered loom at the Whitchurch silk mill which is still producing high quality silk materials. For a view of the silk mill refer to picture SU4647 : Whitchurch Silk Mill.

Len Williams

Fulling Mill

Fulling Mill is a grade II listed building on the outskirts of Whitchurch, Hampshire. The presence of a mill at this location is made in the Domesday Book. The building is now a private residence which has the river Test flowing beneath it.

Len Williams

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The Plantation is located at Grid Ref: SU4648 (Lat: 51.237169, Lng: -1.3417058)

Administrative County: Hampshire

District: Basingstoke and Deane

Police Authority: Hampshire