Merricroft's Wood

Wood, Forest in Oxfordshire South Oxfordshire

England

Merricroft's Wood

Bus shelter on the B4256, Cray's Pond Credit: JThomas

Merricroft's Wood is a picturesque forest located in Oxfordshire, England. Covering an area of approximately 200 acres, this woodland is renowned for its natural beauty and rich biodiversity. It is situated on the outskirts of the charming village of Merricroft, adding to its appeal as a popular destination for nature enthusiasts and outdoor enthusiasts alike.

The wood is predominantly composed of a mix of deciduous and coniferous trees, creating a diverse and striking landscape. Towering oak, beech, and chestnut trees provide a dense canopy, while spruces and firs add a touch of evergreen charm. This variety of tree species supports a thriving ecosystem, attracting a wide range of flora and fauna.

A network of well-maintained trails winds its way through Merricroft's Wood, allowing visitors to explore its enchanting surroundings. These paths offer opportunities for leisurely walks, jogging, and cycling, making it an ideal destination for outdoor activities. The scenic beauty of the wood is particularly stunning during the autumn months when the foliage transforms into a vibrant palette of reds, oranges, and golds.

Wildlife enthusiasts will be delighted by the diverse array of creatures that call Merricroft's Wood home. Deer can often be spotted grazing amongst the trees, while squirrels and rabbits scurry about in search of food. Birdwatchers will also have much to observe, with species such as woodpeckers, owls, and various songbirds frequenting the area.

Overall, Merricroft's Wood in Oxfordshire offers a peaceful and picturesque experience for nature lovers, providing a serene escape from the hustle and bustle of everyday life.

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Merricroft's Wood Images

Images are sourced within 2km of 51.505446/-1.0990478 or Grid Reference SU6278. Thanks to Geograph Open Source API. All images are credited.

Bus shelter on the B4256, Cray's Pond

JThomas

Edge of the Terrace, Basildon Park

An ornamental wall at the edge of the formal garden on the east side of Basildon House.

Des Blenkinsopp

Basildon Park

A traditional bit of country house parkland with grazing and strategically placed trees. This is actually several closely planted trees all growing together into a single canopy.

Des Blenkinsopp

View across Basildon Park

The north west bit of the park viewed from near the house.

Des Blenkinsopp

The Greyhound, Whitchurch-on-Thames

One of two pubs in the village, the Greyhound was first recorded as a public house in 1831 and was converted by Blatch's Brewery of Theale, Berkshire from cottage properties; further major alterations were made in 1879. It is believed that the building may have been occupied at one time by a ferryman, although this would presumably have been before 1792 when the bridge was opened. Blatch's pub estate of 22 houses was absorbed by Ind Coope in 1965 and since 2021 the Greyhound has been part of Oak Taverns Group.

Stephen McKay

Eastfield House, Pangbourne

Surrounded by Heras fencing and boarded up, Eastfield House operated as a care home until its closure in 2016. As is usually the case with derelict properties like this, there is a long history of planning wrangles that are still not resolved. The owner is Majesticare and the house was registered to provide accommodation for 27 residents; the company first applied to demolish the building in 2014 but this was rejected. Despite obtaining permission (on appeal) in 2016 to build an extension that would increase the provision to 45 bedrooms, Majesticare then announced that the building was unsuitable for continued use as a care home for several reasons amongst which was the impossibility of providing en-suite facilities for all of the bedrooms. Their new proposal was for a completely new building in a similar red brick style that would have a larger basement to accommodate a kitchen and laundry. This was again refused by South Oxfordshire District Council on the grounds that it could adversely affect the conservation area and could harm two protected trees on the site. That decision was reported early in 2019 and three years later nothing appears to have happened except that, no doubt, the building is gradually deteriorating. This must surely be an unsatisfactory state of affairs for all concerned.

Stephen McKay

Coombeside Cottage, Whitchurch-on-Thames

Somehow reminiscent of a doll's house, this building, originally two cottages now one, is dated by Historic England as 'probably late 18th century' although other sources suggest 1820. The gothic-style windows are a distinctive feature although the one above the doors has been painted on the wall. At one time one of the cottages served as the village post office. It is grade II listed.

Stephen McKay

The approach to Basildon House

Rod Allday

Parkland at Basildon Park

Rod Allday

Path through the woods at Basildon Park

Rod Allday

Petrol station on the A329, Lower Basildon

David Howard

Gate in Basildon Park

The gates in Basildon Park are a mixture of sturdy new wooden ones put in by the National Trust, and some of these older ironwork ones with varying amounts of decorative curls and knobs depending on their importance.

Des Blenkinsopp