Coombe End Belt

Wood, Forest in Oxfordshire South Oxfordshire

England

Coombe End Belt

K6 telephone box and bus shelter, Cray's Pond Credit: JThomas

Coombe End Belt is a picturesque woodland area located in Oxfordshire, England. Covering an approximate area of 100 acres, it is situated near the village of Coombe, within close proximity to the city of Oxford. This beautiful woodland is a part of the larger Shotover Estate, which is renowned for its diverse and abundant wildlife.

Coombe End Belt is characterized by its dense and ancient trees, creating a peaceful and serene environment for visitors. The dominant tree species found here include oak, beech, and birch, which have thrived in this area for centuries. The woodland floor is adorned with a variety of wildflowers, such as bluebells, primroses, and wood anemones, adding a vibrant touch to the surroundings.

The woodland plays an important role in the local ecosystem, providing a habitat for numerous species of birds, mammals, and insects. Birdwatchers can spot a wide range of species, including woodpeckers, tawny owls, and various songbirds. Additionally, mammals like foxes, badgers, and deer can be occasionally seen roaming through the trees.

Coombe End Belt provides a tranquil setting for nature enthusiasts, hikers, and photographers alike. The area is crisscrossed with footpaths and trails, allowing visitors to explore the woodland and enjoy its natural beauty. The woodland is privately owned but is accessible to the public, making it a popular destination for locals and tourists alike.

In conclusion, Coombe End Belt in Oxfordshire is a charming and diverse woodland, offering a haven for wildlife and a peaceful retreat for visitors seeking solace in nature.

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Coombe End Belt Images

Images are sourced within 2km of 51.506565/-1.0950201 or Grid Reference SU6279. Thanks to Geograph Open Source API. All images are credited.

K6 telephone box and bus shelter, Cray's Pond

JThomas

Bus shelter on the B4256, Cray's Pond

JThomas

B4526, Cray's Pond

JThomas

The White Lion, Cray's Pond

Not currently open (2022). See SU6380 : The White Lion, Crays Pond for happier times.

JThomas

Garage and car sales, 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

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

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