Big Wood

Wood, Forest in Shropshire

England

Big Wood

Old Cottages, Malthouse Lane, Atcham These cottages were designed by the architect John Nash (1752-1835), who later did much work for the Prince Regent, who eventually became King George IV. The cottages probably date from the very start of the 19th century. There is an unusual ogee type bay window looking onto the lane. John Nash was responsible for several of the cottages in this tiny village. Originally a more elaborate development was planned, but that never happened.

In the distance can be seen a traditional red telephone kiosk, but whether that is working or merely ornamental, is unknown. — Old Cottages, Malthouse Lane, Atcham Credit: P L Chadwick

Big Wood is a picturesque forest located in the county of Shropshire, England. Covering an area of approximately 100 hectares, it is a popular destination for nature enthusiasts and outdoor enthusiasts alike. The wood is situated near the village of Wood, hence its name, and offers a tranquil and scenic environment for visitors to explore.

The woodland is a mix of broadleaf and coniferous trees, creating a diverse and rich ecosystem. It is home to a variety of wildlife, including deer, foxes, badgers, and a wide range of bird species. The forest floor is carpeted with a lush undergrowth of ferns, wildflowers, and mosses, adding to the enchanting atmosphere of the wood.

Several well-maintained footpaths crisscross the forest, allowing visitors to explore its beauty and discover hidden gems along the way. These paths offer a range of difficulty levels, catering to both casual strollers and more experienced hikers. There are also designated picnic areas and benches strategically placed throughout the wood, providing opportunities for visitors to rest and appreciate the surroundings.

Big Wood is particularly popular during the autumn season when the foliage turns into a stunning display of vibrant colors. The forest is also a great spot for photography enthusiasts, with its picturesque landscapes and abundant wildlife.

Managed by the local council, Big Wood is easily accessible by car, with ample parking available nearby. It is a place where visitors can immerse themselves in nature, relax, and enjoy the peacefulness of the woodland environment.

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Big Wood Images

Images are sourced within 2km of 52.693801/-2.6925146 or Grid Reference SJ5310. Thanks to Geograph Open Source API. All images are credited.

Old Cottages, Malthouse Lane, Atcham

These cottages were designed by the architect John Nash (1752-1835), who later did much work for the Prince Regent, who eventually became King George IV. The cottages probably date from the very start of the 19th century. There is an unusual ogee type bay window looking onto the lane. John Nash was responsible for several of the cottages in this tiny village. Originally a more elaborate development was planned, but that never happened. In the distance can be seen a traditional red telephone kiosk, but whether that is working or merely ornamental, is unknown.

P L Chadwick

Bus shelter on the B4380 road at Atcham

A sturdy brick built bus shelter, with tiled roof, and a seat inside. Located next to the car park of the Mytton & Mermaid Hotel.

P L Chadwick

Attingham Park entrance gateway, Atcham

This entrance gateway, set back from the B4380 road, was built much later than the house itself. It was erected in 1850, on the instructions of the 5th Lord Berwick. In 1947 Attingham was bequeathed, by the 8th Lord Berwick, to the National Trust.

P L Chadwick

The Mytton & Mermaid Hotel (1), Atcham

The hotel, which is a Grade II listed building, is flanked by the B4380 road, and the River Severn. It has an interesting history. Built in 1735, it was an inn known as the Talbot Arms, a name linked with the Earls of Shrewsbury. It was rebuilt in the coaching era, when it was a stopping point on the route to Holyhead and Ireland. In the 1830's it came under the same ownership as Attingham Park, and the name was changed to the Berwick Arms. In the 1860's, with the spread of the railways, coaching inns declined and the property was sold as a private house, and re-named Atcham House. In the 1930's it was purchased by the famous architect Sir Clough Williams Ellis, who developed the Italianate village of Portmeirion in North Wales. Sir Clough converted the building to a hotel, which took the name of The Mytton and Mermaid. Mytton was the name of the local squire who squandered his fortune, and the Mermaid came from the crest of the Portmeirion hotel. In the stableyard there is or was a metal sculpture of a mermaid by Ralph Ellis. The mermaid also used to be appear on the hotel's sign, but sadly she has been banished. SJ5409 : The Mytton & Mermaid Hotel (2) - hotel sign, Atcham.

P L Chadwick

The Mytton & Mermaid Hotel (2) - hotel sign, Atcham

This drab unappealing sign has replaced the amusing one which was here as recently as 2008. It is located at the edge of the hotel car park. Fortunately the previous sign was photographed in March of that year by Row17, and can be seen here:- SJ5409 : Sign of 'The Mytton & Mermaid' - a roadside inn. An original and imaginative interpretation of the hotel's name with Squire Mytton on his horse, and a mermaid popping up in his mug of beer! It shows the value of always taking a picture of any sign, when photographing hotels, pubs and inns. They change more often than one might expect, and are an interesting piece of social history. SJ5409 : The Mytton & Mermaid Hotel (1), Atcham.

P L Chadwick

Old Atcham Bridge

Disused bridge over the River Severn that used to carry the A5 road.

Roy Hughes

Gateway, Atcham

The grand entrance to Attingham Hall is surprisingly late, built only in 1862 to the designs of Charles Fowler (jr). It consists of five arches, the central, larger arch framed by Doric columns. Carved in the spandrels are a winged horse and a stag. A lodge lies behind each of the two outer arches. Grade II* listed.

Stephen Richards

Atcham Bridge, Atcham

Built in 1769-71 to the designs of John Gwynn, and, Pevsner notes, one of the most expensive mid-Georgian bridges in the county. It has seven arches, a central aedicule, and keystones with vermiculated rustication (as on the left) in Grinshill stone. Grade II* listed. In 1929 it was superseded by a modern, concrete bridge over the Severn.

Stephen Richards

Hotel, Atcham

A substantial Georgian building of seven bays and three storeys with a pedimented Doric doorcase. Lying on the London-Holyhead road, it was built c1775 as the Talbot Hotel, and is now the Mytton and Mermaid. Grade II listed.

Stephen Richards

River Severn, Atcham

With part of the balustrade of the 1929 bridge in the foreground.

Stephen Richards

Lodge and gates near Atcham

At the entrance to Longner Hall. Designed by Humphrey Repton, best known for his landscape design, in 1813. Gothic-Tudor, with dripmoulds, battlements and polygonal chimneystacks. The left gate pier has an ogee cap, the other seems to have gone astray. Grade II listed.

Stephen Richards