Centuries whisper through the ancient trees of Oxleas Wood. This isn’t just any woodland. Oxleas Wood is a remnant of a forest that has stood here for over 8000 years. It dates back to the end of the last Ice Age.
Oxleas Wood is one of the few remaining areas of ancient deciduous forest. You’ll find it in Eltham. This is within the Royal Borough of Greenwich. A small part extends into the London Borough of Bexley.
Imagine this place centuries ago. Oxleas Wood was part of the Royal Manor of Eltham. That was established way back in 1311. In 1679, the woods were leased to Sir John Shaw. His family managed Oxleas Wood for generations until 1811. After that, the War Department took over.
Later, in 1930, the London County Council acquired Oxleas Wood. Their goal was to provide a public recreation space. Finally in 1934, Oxleas Wood opened to the public. Ownership shifted again in 1986. The Greater London Council was abolished. The Borough of Greenwich took control.
Now, let me tell you about a battle fought not with swords but with signs and voices. In 1993, there were plans to build a road. The East London River Crossing would have cut right through Oxleas Wood. Local residents united in opposition. They formed a group called People Against the River Crossing or PARC. Environmental organizations, radical environmentalists, and even pagans joined the fight. Over 3,000 people pledged to engage in civil disobedience to defend Oxleas Wood. Their efforts paid off. The road project was abandoned.
Oxleas Wood is more than just trees. It’s a Site of Special Scientific Interest. It covers 72 hectares and includes Jack Wood and Shepherdleas Wood. Here you will see oak, silver birch and hornbeam. Also, there is coppice hazel. Look closely. You might spot a Wild Service Tree.
The larger area that includes Eltham Common is a Local Nature Reserve. It’s called Oxleas/Shooters Hill Woodlands. Oxleas Wood sits atop Shooters Hill in the Royal Borough of Greenwich.
Beneath the grass of Oxleas Meadow lies a hidden secret. There’s an underground water reservoir. It supplies the local area with water. You’ll see a building nearby called “the hut.” It houses equipment Thames Water uses to control the reservoir. Several streams begin within Oxleas Wood. The longest is the Wogebourne. It flows for 8 kilometers before joining the River Thames.
Before you leave, notice the cafe in Oxleas Meadow. The Borough of Greenwich owns the brick building. Public toilets are available during cafe hours.
Oxleas Wood is also home to a thriving honeybee apiary. It’s called the Oxleas Wood Apiary. The late apiarist John Large managed it. Take a moment to appreciate the buzzing life. Oxleas Wood is a place where history and nature intertwine. It is a testament to the power of community.