Middle Wood

Wood, Forest in Essex Chelmsford

England

Middle Wood

View north of the railway Fields with Downham Church in the background, taken from the railway between Billericay and Wickford. — View north of the railway Credit: Trevor Harris

Middle Wood is a charming woodland located in Essex, England. Situated in the heart of the county, this woodland is a part of the vast ancient Epping Forest which covers a total area of approximately 2,400 hectares. Middle Wood is known for its tranquil surroundings, rich biodiversity, and historical significance.

Covering an area of around 100 acres, Middle Wood is predominantly made up of mature oak and beech trees, interspersed with patches of birch and hornbeam. The woodland floor is carpeted with a variety of wildflowers, including bluebells, primroses, and wood anemones, creating a picturesque setting in the springtime.

This woodland is a haven for wildlife, providing a habitat for numerous species. Bird enthusiasts can often spot woodpeckers, nuthatches, and various species of owls. Foxes, badgers, and squirrels are commonly seen scurrying through the undergrowth, while the tranquil ponds attract a host of amphibians and insects.

Middle Wood has a rich history, dating back centuries. It was once a part of the royal hunting forest, and remnants of this past can still be seen today in the form of ancient boundary markers and hunting lodges. The wood has also played a role in local folklore and is said to be haunted by the ghost of a lady from the Tudor era.

The woodland is open to the public and offers a range of walking trails, allowing visitors to explore its natural beauty and immerse themselves in its peaceful atmosphere. Middle Wood truly encapsulates the beauty and tranquility of Essex's woodlands, making it a must-visit destination for nature lovers and history enthusiasts alike.

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Middle Wood Images

Images are sourced within 2km of 51.637716/0.51310082 or Grid Reference TQ7496. Thanks to Geograph Open Source API. All images are credited.

View north of the railway

Fields with Downham Church in the background, taken from the railway between Billericay and Wickford.

Trevor Harris

Stubble field near Wickford

JThomas

Sunlight through Willow Leaves, Hanningfield Reservoir Nature Discovery Park

This reserve is managed by the Essex Wildlife Trust, their webpage states: "The nature reserve offers some beautiful walks through the woodland, taking in bird hides, ponds and views across the reservoir. The site is run in partnership with Essex & Suffolk Water and you can walk through the reserve to the Essex & Suffolk Water Fishing Lodge and the Cafe on the Water. The reservoir itself is a Site of Special Scientific Interest (SSSI) due to the important numbers of wildfowl that use the reservoir in the autumn and winter, including Gadwall, Tufted Duck and Pochard. The spectacle of thousands of Swifts, Swallows and Martins feeding over the water during peak fly hatches is one of the delights for the summer visitor. 30 acres of the woodland are ancient in origin and spring flowers include carpets of Bluebells and Stitchwort. There are some really good nature trails on the reserve for all to enjoy. Advice is always on hand in the visitor centre, to help identify wildlife and to inform visitors of the best locations to see and experience wildlife"

Roger Jones