Ballast Hole Plantation

Wood, Forest in Norfolk King's Lynn and West Norfolk

England

Ballast Hole Plantation

St. German's railway station (site), Norfolk Opened in 1846 by the Lynn &amp; Ely Railway, later part of the Great Eastern Railway, this short lived station closed in 1851.
View south towards Watlington and Ely from Mill Road Level Crossing. There were probably 2 parallel wooden platforms here. No trace of the station apparently survives. The track was singled in 1984 and the trees are a relatively recent addition.
Later, a platform with cattle pens was opened behind the camera position and for many years the location was known as St. German&#039;s Sidings. — St. German's railway station (site), Norfolk Credit: Nigel Thompson

Ballast Hole Plantation is a historic woodland located in Norfolk, England. Situated on the outskirts of the village of Wood, it covers an area of approximately 50 acres. The plantation is renowned for its diverse range of trees and is a designated forest area.

The woodland dates back several centuries and has a rich history. It was originally established as a source of timber for shipbuilding during the 17th and 18th centuries. The name "Ballast Hole" refers to the practice of using the site as a dumping ground for ballast stones brought by ships returning from overseas voyages.

Today, Ballast Hole Plantation is a popular destination for nature enthusiasts and hikers. The woodland is home to an array of tree species, including oak, beech, ash, and pine. These trees provide a haven for various wildlife, such as deer, squirrels, and a wide variety of bird species.

The plantation is well-maintained, with well-marked trails that allow visitors to explore the woodland at their own pace. There are also picnic areas and benches scattered throughout the plantation, providing opportunities for visitors to relax and enjoy the serene surroundings.

In addition to its natural beauty, Ballast Hole Plantation also has historical significance. The remains of old sawpits and charcoal hearths can still be found within the woodland, serving as a reminder of its past as a timber source.

Overall, Ballast Hole Plantation in Norfolk is a captivating woodland that offers a blend of natural beauty and historical charm, making it a must-visit destination for nature lovers and history enthusiasts alike.

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Ballast Hole Plantation Images

Images are sourced within 2km of 52.680789/0.39521182 or Grid Reference TF6211. Thanks to Geograph Open Source API. All images are credited.

St. German's railway station (site), Norfolk

Opened in 1846 by the Lynn & Ely Railway, later part of the Great Eastern Railway, this short lived station closed in 1851. View south towards Watlington and Ely from Mill Road Level Crossing. There were probably 2 parallel wooden platforms here. No trace of the station apparently survives. The track was singled in 1984 and the trees are a relatively recent addition. Later, a platform with cattle pens was opened behind the camera position and for many years the location was known as St. German's Sidings.

Nigel Thompson

At Watlington Station

The 12:51 for London King's Cross has just arrived.

Mary and Angus Hogg

A Heavenly crown

The carving on this old stone shows a crown with two cherubs, or winged souls, with carved designs on each side. The crown was used to represent the hammermen’s trade, commonly a blacksmith, but it could be a Heavenly crown.

Mary and Angus Hogg

A little cherub at Watlington

A gentleman who was cutting some grass in Watlington churchyard gave me a very helpful copy of the record of monumental inscriptions that had been compiled by a church member in 1998. The book refers to cherubs carved on some old stones. I wondered if they might be winged souls, which represent the rise of the deceased to Heaven. This stone shows a very fine example.

Mary and Angus Hogg

A sad story in Watlington graveyard

The Broadbent family grave at Watlington tells a sad story. The two little children died only 17 days apart at a time when disease commonly spread easily in all communities. The inscription reads: In Memory of WILLIAM Son Of JOSEPH And ELIZABETH BROADBENT Who died 14th October 1848 Aged 2 Years Also MARY Daughter Of The Above Who Died 31st October 1848 Aged 6 months These Lovely Buds So Young So Fair Called Hence By Early Doom Just Came To Show How Sweet Such Flowers In Paradise Would Bloom

Mary and Angus Hogg

Church of St. Peter & St. Paul, Watlington

A gentleman who was cutting some grass explained that most of the graveyard was being left uncut in the interests of wildlife. He gave me a very helpful copy of the record of monumental inscriptions that had been compiled by a church member in 1998.

Mary and Angus Hogg

Magdalen New Cut Bridge

The bridge crosses the relief drainage channel which lies alongside the tidal River Great Ouse. The need for water control is clear in this very flat land that’s only 1-2 metres above sea level.

Mary and Angus Hogg

Direction Sign - Signpost in Watlington

Located on the southwest side of the junction of School Road, Church Road and Downham Road in Watlington parish. 4 arms and annulus finial. Makers name Stanton on pillar. Milestone Society National ID: NO_TF6111

H Jones