Birchcope Shaw

Wood, Forest in Kent Sevenoaks

England

Birchcope Shaw

Pond by the railway The railway is not very obvious in this view, but the Uckfield line is on a high embankment behind the pond. A faint horizontal line halfway up the trees is the track. — Pond by the railway Credit: Robin Webster

Birchcope Shaw is a picturesque woodland located in Kent, England. Spread across a vast area, it is known for its dense birch tree population, which gives the shaw its name. The woodland primarily consists of silver birch trees, with their distinctive white bark and delicate leaves, creating a captivating sight throughout the year.

Situated in the heart of the Kent countryside, Birchcope Shaw offers a tranquil escape from the bustling city life. The peaceful ambiance combined with the enchanting beauty of the forest makes it a popular destination for nature enthusiasts, hikers, and photographers.

The woodland is home to a diverse range of flora and fauna, providing a thriving ecosystem. Visitors can spot a variety of woodland creatures, including deer, rabbits, squirrels, and various species of birds. The delicate wildflowers that bloom in the spring and summer add a burst of color to the serene surroundings.

Birchcope Shaw is well-equipped with walking trails that wind their way through the forest, allowing visitors to explore its hidden gems. These trails cater to all levels of fitness and are suitable for families, couples, and individuals alike. The sound of rustling leaves underfoot and the scent of fresh pine permeate the air, further enhancing the sensory experience.

Whether it's a leisurely stroll, a picnic amidst the trees, or simply a moment of solitude in nature, Birchcope Shaw provides an idyllic setting for relaxation and rejuvenation. It is a cherished natural gem in Kent, attracting locals and tourists alike with its timeless beauty and tranquil charm.

Show me another place!

If you have any feedback on the listing, please let us know in the comments section below.

Birchcope Shaw Images

Images are sourced within 2km of 51.158845/0.13536453 or Grid Reference TQ4942. Thanks to Geograph Open Source API. All images are credited.

Pond by the railway

The railway is not very obvious in this view, but the Uckfield line is on a high embankment behind the pond. A faint horizontal line halfway up the trees is the track.

Robin Webster

Sandstone outcrop

Nearly the most easterly of a long line of crags, most of which are rather overgrown, along the south side of the valley,

Robin Webster

A secluded field

Having emerged from gill woodland behind the camera, footpath SR537 faintly follows the field margin around the bend to the right.

Robin Webster

Curds

This pair of cottages are labelled 'Curds' on the larger scale maps. A rather secluded spot, but footpath SR534 does pass them by. In principle this footpath should head straight across the field towards them from the viewpoint.

Robin Webster

View towards Horseshoe Green

The large barn is part of Horseshoe Green Farm, and seems to be a milking barn, judging by the number of cows in the yard and the loud humming noise radiating from it when passed at about 16:45.

Robin Webster

Mark Beech Tunnel, southern portal

Although the tunnel passes under the village of Markbeech, the railways have chosen a two word version of the name for the tunnel, unless their sign writer got it wrong. It is 1342 yards long - with the same proviso! It appears to be fitted with an antenna relay to enable radio reception within the tunnel. The faint white patch on the brickwork to the left of the portal must have been a sighting aid for a semaphore signal close to the tunnel mouth. The tunnel and line as a whole were built for double track, but it is now single over much of its length. This has enabled a comfortably wide inspection walkway fenced off from the track to be made through the tunnel - the end of the blue fence may be seen.

Robin Webster

Track components by the track, Cowden

Cowden station may just be glimpsed around the bend.

Robin Webster

A barren field

The field seems to have been sprayed with weedkiller before much grew - the principal recoloniser, or more likely, survivor, is a Dock. The white patch is not water, but the remains of a heap of some material like lime. The woodland beyond is Stock Wood.

Robin Webster

Trees on old hedge line

There are a couple more isolated trees out of shot to the left, marking where this field was once two.

Robin Webster

Pond by road north of Hoath Corner

This is one of several in this area, excavated in the Wadhurst Clay either to extract marl for use on more acid soils, or to extract ironstone.

Robin Webster

Cowden station, 1987

View NW, towards Oxted and London: ex-London, Brighton & South Coast Railway, London - Oxted - Ashurst - Tunbridge Wells West/Uckfield - Lewes - Brighton/Eridge - Eastbourne lines. Since 8/7/85, when the Tunbridge Wells West line was closed, trains have run through here only to Uckfield. (See also TQ4741 : Cowden station, 1987).

Ben Brooksbank

Cowden station, 1987

View SE, towards Ashurst and Uckfield: ex-London, Brighton & South Coast Railway, London - Oxted - Ashurst - Tunbridge Wells West/Uckfield - Lewes - Brighton/Eridge - Eastbourne lines. Since 8/7/85 when the Tunbridge Wells West line closed, trains through here have gone no further than Uckfield. (See also TQ4741 : Cowden station, 1987).

Ben Brooksbank