King Grove

Wood, Forest in Shropshire

England

King Grove

The path up to Bury Ditches hillfort The excellent wood carving on the tree stump adjacent to the path is great work and is used to help bring the site to life for interested visitors. The figure depicts an Iron Age boy, named Llew, who may have lived here before the Romans came. Him and his dog appear at various points in and around the hillfort. — The path up to Bury Ditches hillfort Credit: Jeremy Bolwell

King Grove is a picturesque woodland located in the charming county of Shropshire, in western England. Covering an expansive area of approximately 500 acres, this forest is a haven for nature enthusiasts and those seeking tranquility amidst the beauty of the outdoors.

The woodland is predominantly composed of native British tree species, such as oak, beech, and birch, which contribute to its rich biodiversity. The dense canopy of trees provides a sheltered habitat for a wide variety of wildlife, including deer, foxes, and an array of bird species. It is not uncommon to spot a red squirrel darting through the branches or hear the melodic songs of woodland birds echoing through the trees.

Visitors to King Grove can explore a network of well-maintained footpaths and trails that wind their way through the forest, offering a chance to immerse oneself in the natural splendor of the surroundings. The forest also features a small lake, providing a serene spot for picnics or a leisurely stroll along the water's edge.

In addition to its natural beauty, King Grove is steeped in history. The woodland has been a part of the local landscape for centuries and has witnessed various historical events. The ruins of an ancient hunting lodge, once used by local nobility, can still be seen within the forest, serving as a reminder of the area's past.

Overall, King Grove in Shropshire offers a peaceful retreat for those seeking solace in nature. With its stunning woodland, diverse wildlife, and historical significance, it is a place where visitors can appreciate the true wonders of the English countryside.

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King Grove Images

Images are sourced within 2km of 52.438145/-2.9883137 or Grid Reference SO3282. Thanks to Geograph Open Source API. All images are credited.

The path up to Bury Ditches hillfort

The excellent wood carving on the tree stump adjacent to the path is great work and is used to help bring the site to life for interested visitors. The figure depicts an Iron Age boy, named Llew, who may have lived here before the Romans came. Him and his dog appear at various points in and around the hillfort.

Jeremy Bolwell

Carved tree trunk beside the path to Bury Ditches hillfort

Another excellent interpretive wood carving, depicting figures from the Iron Age in various activities. Ideally sited to provide a rest for walkers ascending the steady gradient up to the hillfort entrance from the nearby car park and picnic site.

Jeremy Bolwell

Footpath entrance to Bury Ditches hillfort site

The gate here enters just below where the entrance to the hillfort is situated, its earthwork banks can be discerned ahead. The Bury Ditches hillfort is well preserved, despite until fairly recently being forested with a plantation, which has since been cleared. The site is of high importance.

Jeremy Bolwell

Footpath around the ramparts of Bury Ditches hillfort

The ramparts crowning the site carry a path enabling you to walk completely around the site, enabling interested visitors to appreciate the size of the interior, the height of the banks, condition of the surviving defences and of course the huge views over most of Shropshire. On a summer day it is one of the very best places to be in the whole county, in my humble opinion.

Jeremy Bolwell

Path around Bury Ditches hillfort ramparts

The O/S map still shows Bury Ditches as an afforested plantation, but the hillfort site has been clear felled and allowed to return to grassland and heather moor, although the plantation abuts it.

Jeremy Bolwell

Part of Bury Ditches hillfort

A family enjoy the interpretative information at the site and explore the ramparts near the entrance. The view beyond eastwards covers large expanses of the county.

Jeremy Bolwell

Toposcope on the summit of Sunnyhill

Sunnyhill is crowned with Bury Ditches hillfort and in turn the hillfort is crowned with a small toposcope which indicates all the surrounding and distant hills and mountains. From here many of the high points within Shropshire can be seen, such as Caer Caradoc and Ratlinghope Hillforts or Caynham Camp and sites in adjacent counties such as Corndon Hill and Radnor Forest.

Jeremy Bolwell

Interpretation information at Bury Ditches hillfort

Llew, the representation of an Iron Age boy, welcomes visitors to the hillfort site, helpfully showing where the best views are to be seen. His faithful hound sits patiently by his side. He lived in a wonderful spot, in summer at least.

Jeremy Bolwell