Big Wood

Wood, Forest in Leicestershire Melton

England

Big Wood

The Salt Way at Three Queens Three Queens is the name of the wood to the right of the road. It sits at the corner of the crossing of two ancient routes: the Salt Way (this road), and Sewstern Lane (crossing left to right at the start of the bend).
&quot;The name Three Queens is said to refer to the burial barrows of three queens of the Bronze Age.&quot; <span class="nowrap"><a title="http://local-history.org.uk/waltham/pages/local-history/croxton-park-abbey/" rel="nofollow ugc noopener" href="http://local-history.org.uk/waltham/pages/local-history/croxton-park-abbey/">Link</a><img style="margin-left:2px;" alt="External link" title="External link - shift click to open in new window" src="https://s1.geograph.org.uk/img/external.png" width="10" height="10"/></span>. Several barrows have certainly been recorded here (Leicestershire historic environment record MLE3559 <span class="nowrap"><a title="https://www.heritagegateway.org.uk/Gateway/Results_Single.aspx?uid=MLE3559&amp;resourceID=1021" rel="nofollow ugc noopener" href="https://www.heritagegateway.org.uk/Gateway/Results_Single.aspx?uid=MLE3559&amp;resourceID=1021">Link</a><img style="margin-left:2px;" alt="External link" title="External link - shift click to open in new window" src="https://s1.geograph.org.uk/img/external.png" width="10" height="10"/></span> ), one containing the skeleton of a woman.
<span class="nowrap"><a title="https://www.bottesfordhistory.org.uk/content/about/read-it-hear-not-forgetting/not-forgetting-chapter-9-getting-about-in-the-past" rel="nofollow ugc noopener" href="https://www.bottesfordhistory.org.uk/content/about/read-it-hear-not-forgetting/not-forgetting-chapter-9-getting-about-in-the-past">Link</a><img style="margin-left:2px;" alt="External link" title="External link - shift click to open in new window" src="https://s1.geograph.org.uk/img/external.png" width="10" height="10"/></span> states &quot;Here stood an 18th Century hostelry “of ill repute”, The Three Queens, frequented by cattle drovers and perhaps footpads. The inn eventually closed when the ancient trackways were replaced by newer roads, and there is nothing at the site now except a muddy track crossing a minor road.&quot; — The Salt Way at Three Queens Credit: Tim Heaton

Big Wood is a prominent forest located in Leicestershire, England. It covers a vast area, spanning over several hundred acres and is known for its rich biodiversity and natural beauty. The wood is situated near the village of Wood, and hence it is commonly referred to as Big Wood, Leicestershire.

The forest features a diverse range of tree species, including oak, beech, ash, and birch. These towering trees create a dense canopy, providing shelter and habitat for numerous wildlife species. Big Wood is home to a variety of animals such as deer, foxes, badgers, and a wide array of bird species, making it a popular spot for nature enthusiasts and wildlife photographers.

The wood offers an ideal setting for recreational activities such as walking, hiking, and picnicking. Numerous well-defined trails and pathways meander through the forest, allowing visitors to explore its various nooks and crannies. The tranquil atmosphere and serene surroundings attract both locals and tourists, providing an escape from the hustle and bustle of daily life.

Big Wood is not only a natural haven but also plays a crucial role in the local ecosystem. It acts as a carbon sink, absorbing carbon dioxide and contributing to the reduction of greenhouse gases. Additionally, the forest helps in preventing soil erosion, regulating water flow, and maintaining the overall ecological balance.

Overall, Big Wood in Leicestershire is a cherished natural treasure, offering a tranquil retreat for nature lovers and serving as a vital habitat for a wide range of plant and animal species.

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Big Wood Images

Images are sourced within 2km of 52.87166/-0.74019969 or Grid Reference SK8431. Thanks to Geograph Open Source API. All images are credited.

The Salt Way at Three Queens

Three Queens is the name of the wood to the right of the road. It sits at the corner of the crossing of two ancient routes: the Salt Way (this road), and Sewstern Lane (crossing left to right at the start of the bend). "The name Three Queens is said to refer to the burial barrows of three queens of the Bronze Age." Link

. Several barrows have certainly been recorded here (Leicestershire historic environment record MLE3559 Link

), one containing the skeleton of a woman. Link

states "Here stood an 18th Century hostelry “of ill repute”, The Three Queens, frequented by cattle drovers and perhaps footpads. The inn eventually closed when the ancient trackways were replaced by newer roads, and there is nothing at the site now except a muddy track crossing a minor road."

Tim Heaton

Gorse Lane east of Croxton Kerrial

Part of the Salt Way, and a former Roman road along the top of the Lincolnshire Limestone ridge south of Grantham. The name 'Gorse Lane' seems to be applied by local residents and businesses to the whole stretch of this road, from its junctions with the A607 in the west to the B1174 in the east. On OS and Google maps the name only appears on the eastern-most section of the road.

Tim Heaton

Sewstern Lane crossing the Salt Way at Three Queens

Three Queens is the name of the wood on the left. It sits at the corner of the crossing of two ancient routes: Sewstern Lane (crossing straight ahead) and the Salt Way (road). The area around the wood contains several Bronze Age burial mounds (barrows); and the name 'Three Queens' may derive from these - because when one of the mounds was excavated, it was found to contain the skeleton of a woman. Link

Link

states "Here stood an 18th Century hostelry "of ill repute", The Three Queens, frequented by cattle drovers and perhaps footpads. The inn eventually closed when the ancient trackways were replaced by newer roads, and there is nothing at the site now except a muddy track crossing a minor road."

Tim Heaton