Savens Withy Bed

Wood, Forest in Dorset

England

Savens Withy Bed

Looking east along the Roman Road at Two Gates The thick fog in this photo was coming in from the sea (to the right) and making driving on this narrow (but straight) road quite difficult. It had been sunny only a few hours earlier, which shows how quickly the weather can change on this high ground (238m above sea level). The Roman road eventually leads to Dorchester. — Looking east along the Roman Road at Two Gates Credit: Jim Champion

Savens Withy Bed is a picturesque wood located in the county of Dorset, England. Situated near the village of Lytchett Matravers, it covers an area of approximately 10 acres. The wood is known for its dense canopy of trees, creating a tranquil and secluded atmosphere.

The primary tree species found in Savens Withy Bed are oak, ash, and beech, which dominate the woodland landscape. The forest floor is covered with a rich carpet of moss, ferns, and wildflowers, adding to the natural beauty of the area. This diverse habitat provides a sanctuary for a wide variety of wildlife, including birds, mammals, and insects.

Visitors to Savens Withy Bed can explore the wood through a network of footpaths that wind their way through the trees. These paths offer a chance to immerse oneself in nature and enjoy the peaceful surroundings. The wood is particularly popular with nature enthusiasts, hikers, and photographers due to its scenic beauty.

A unique feature of Savens Withy Bed is the presence of withy beds, which are areas where willow trees have been traditionally cultivated for their flexible branches. These branches were historically used for making baskets and other woven goods. The withy beds add an interesting historical and cultural element to the wood, showcasing the region's traditional industries.

Savens Withy Bed is open to the public year-round, providing an opportunity for people to connect with nature and enjoy the tranquility of this beautiful woodland. Whether one is seeking a peaceful walk, a spot for wildlife observation, or simply a place to relax, Savens Withy Bed offers a serene and enchanting experience.

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Savens Withy Bed Images

Images are sourced within 2km of 50.752383/-2.6145979 or Grid Reference SY5694. Thanks to Geograph Open Source API. All images are credited.

Looking east along the Roman Road at Two Gates

The thick fog in this photo was coming in from the sea (to the right) and making driving on this narrow (but straight) road quite difficult. It had been sunny only a few hours earlier, which shows how quickly the weather can change on this high ground (238m above sea level). The Roman road eventually leads to Dorchester.

Jim Champion

View from Shatcombe Lane towards Eggardon Hill Farm

Looking southeast from Shatcombe Lane, with Eggardon Hill Farm in the valley below. According to the map this field has 'celtic field systems' i.e. the earthwork remains of Bronze Age farming. Now it is home to some white bullocks.

Jim Champion

Road junction and signpost on Eggardon Hill

This junction marks the higher end of Shatcombe Lane. The Eggardon Hill trig point can be seen on the horizon, left of centre. The top of the directional signpost features the number "548948" which I only later realised was the OS grid reference for this sign.

Jim Champion

Flytipping at Shatcombe Lane picnic Area, Eggardon Hill

A nearby sign (not pictured) asks visitors to PLEASE LEAVE THIS AREA AS YOU WOULD HOPE TO FIND IT. Someone obviously hoped to find it containing a broken fridge and washing machine. Why bring it up here to the top of a remote Dorset hill?

Jim Champion

An Eagle at Wynford Eagle

Wynford Eagle is a creepy sort of place and this eagle poised on an impressive house doesn't help.

Graham Clutton

West Compton: parish church of St. Michael

Although the village is immediately west of Compton Valence, the name West Compton actually refers to Compton Abbas, some 20 miles away – to which parish it was originally a detachment.

Chris Downer

Manor Farmhouse Wynford Eagle

This is the manor house that was rebuilt in 1630 by William Sydenham (date on the porch), and which has remained unaltered ever since. Grade II* listed. The northings line (96000) of the grid reference was verified by GPS, and found to literally cross the entrance gate threshold, from where this photo was taken.

Mike Searle

House on the road southwest of Wynford Eagle

Mike Searle

Bridleway as seen from the Roman road

Note the high and sturdy gates/fencing beyond the metal gate - this area has been extensively planted to new woodland so high fences have been erected to keep deer away from the trees.

Les Mildon

Isolated farm building

Isolated farm building as viewed from the north east on Jubilee Trail. Building currently used to shelter sheep.

Les Mildon

New tree planting

Looking south along the bridleway, there are many acres of newly planted trees to the east.

Les Mildon

Piggrery at Compton Barn

Looking south west from Greenford Lane to the piggery at Compton Barn.

Les Mildon

Wynford Eagle: parish church of St. Lawrence

This church was rebuilt in 1840 in this new position.

Chris Downer

Wynford Eagle: the village

Looking down the lane from Eggardon Hill, at the village of Wynford Eagle. The SY5895 : Wynford Eagle: parish church of St. Lawrence is on the right.

Chris Downer

Toller Porcorum: cows at Woolcombe Farm

The calf does not match the colour of the adults.

Chris Downer

Toller Porcorum: Shatcombe Lane

The lane to Wynford Eagle from the top of Eggardon Hill: the edge of the square must be very close to the rather strange looking tree.

Chris Downer

Wynford Eagle: cows

As soon as I reached the field gate, each cow turned round to keep an eye on me, while those that were lying down stood up. A minute later, they had all without exception ventured forth: see SY5695 : This way, please! and SY5695 : Lots of cows.

Chris Downer