Coombe Hill Wood

Beneath the rustling canopy of Coombe Hill Wood, secrets whisper on the breeze. Coombe Hill Wood isn’t just a collection of trees. It’s a living testament to centuries of change, a mosaic of habitats woven together over time. Imagine standing here in 1822, surrounded by ancient oak woodland, a haven for lichens, ferns, and countless invertebrates thriving in the decaying wood. Today, Coombe Hill Wood spans 62 acres. It encompasses not just that original oak woodland, but also conifer plantations from the 1960s, interspersed with broadleaves like Elm, Beech, and Alder. Look closely, and you’ll see the vibrant green of Ash regeneration, pushing its way through the older trees. Veteran Oaks, Beeches, Sycamores, and Field Maples still stand tall, their branches reaching towards the sky, often sheltered by an understory of Hazel and Hawthorn. This isn’t a static landscape. Coombe Hill Wood is actively managed, ensuring the survival of these veteran trees while coppicing Hazel in rotation and thinning other areas to encourage the growth of native broadleaves. The paths that wind through the wood, accessible to many, are carefully maintained not just for ease of access but also to foster a diverse array of wildflowers and invertebrates. Even the western escarpment, now restored downland, speaks to the careful stewardship of this special place. This wood is alive with the sights and sounds of nature. From the smallest goldcrest to the majestic buzzard, the air is filled with birdsong. Keep your eyes peeled for the flash of a sparrow hawk or kestrel soaring overhead. At dawn and dusk, you might catch a glimpse of roe deer, foxes, badgers, hares, and rabbits. Coombe Hill Wood holds a secret from a distant past. Hidden within its depths is a section of the “New Ditch,” an enigmatic earthwork dating back an astonishing 3,000 years to the Iron Age. As you wander through the woods, take a moment to explore the information boards dotted along the paths. They reveal the intricate management techniques employed here and identify some of the fascinating flora and fauna that call this wood home. Follow the blue butterfly way-markers of the “Polden Way,” a six-mile off-road path that meanders through Coombe Hill Wood and beyond. Coombe Hill Wood offers more than just a walk in the woods. It offers a journey through time, a connection to nature, and a glimpse into the rich tapestry of life that thrives within its embrace.