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About us

Glen Finglas: a 25 year transformation

As we celebrate a milestone for this magical site in the heart of Scotland, we take a look back at everything we’ve achieved – and how it reflects our wider work and values.

Video

Restoring Coed y Galchog: a 25 year plan

Ray Turner, owner of Coed y Galchog near Ruthin, explains how the Woodland Trust is helping with his 25 year plan to restore the wood for future generations to enjoy.

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Trees woods and wildlife

St Mark’s fly

A long-legged fly you can tell the time by – well, the time of year. St Mark’s flies emerge en-masse around 25 April each year.

Video

Celebrating 20 years of 'Woods on Your Doorstep'

20 years of "Woods on Your Doorstep". Creating woodlands within walking distance of cities, towns, and villages across Northern Ireland. Find out how these natural spaces have benefitted the community.

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Woodland Trust youth council

Meet the Woodland Trust youth council: a dedicated team of brilliant young volunteers aged 16-25 who are helping shape the future of woods and trees.

Trees woods and wildlife

Shaggy parasol

Elegant and shabby-chic. Good to eat – unless you’re one of the one in 25 people whose stomach can’t tolerate it.

Video

How we're returning red squirrels to the Scottish Highlands

In October 2019 we partnered with conservation charity Trees for Life and together relocated red squirrels from populations in Moray and Inverness to this Ledmore & Migdale woods. 

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Partnerships

Sainsbury's

We've spent the last 20 years growing our successful partnership, working together for a healthier planet. As part of this, we're championing innovative nature-friendly farming agroforestry solutions, funding free trees for schools and communities, and planting over five million trees across the UK.

Press centre

The Woodland Trust’s Mourne Park is awarded £2.5 million windfall from the National Lottery Heritage Fund

Mourne Park is set to reopen following damage from Storms Darragh and Éowyn, with a significant financial windfall from the National Lottery Heritage Fund.

Video

'Woods on Your Doorstep' community project plants a quarter of a million trees

20 years of "Woods on Your Doorstep". Creating woodlands within walking distance of cities, towns, and villages across Northern Ireland. Find out how these natural spaces have benefitted the community.

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Press centre

How can we fund new woodland against a backdrop of cuts?

A 41% cut to anything is a big deal. But when it amounts to £32,000,000, it’s a massive deal. That’s the scale of the cut that the 2024-25 Scottish Budget imposes on woodland grants.

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What young people are doing for woods and trees

Empowering youth for a healthier planet: discover how we're shaping the future of woods, trees and wildlife together.

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Helicopter seeds: which trees do they come from?

Four tree species produce ‘helicopter seeds’ in the UK. Find out more with our ID guides, spotting tips and interesting facts.

Charlie Mellor  •  30 May 2019

Plant trees

Free trees for schools and communities

Trees help people and nature thrive and we need more of them in the ground. That’s why we’re giving thousands away free to schools, councils, clubs and more.

Trees woods and wildlife

Woodcock

These plump-looking birds spend much of their time curled up on the forest floor. Their clever camouflage allows them to blend in with their woodland surroundings.

Blog

How to forage wild garlic and make wild garlic pesto

What's that smell? It's wild garlic season! Find out how to make the best of it with our foraging guide and recipes.

Laura Cottam  •  26 Apr 2019

Blog

Alternative charity gifts for Christmas

Our shop offers a huge variety of gifts with something for everyone for Christmas. Here are our top ideas for alternative charity gifts for the festive season.

Charlie Mellor  •  13 Dec 2024

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Tanio Arloesedd: her cadwraeth

Poeni am gadwraeth? Rydym yn chwilio am syniadau disgleiriaf y DU gan feddyliau ifanc.

Trees woods and wildlife

Kingfisher

Lightning fast and technicoloured, seeing a kingfisher always feels special. Spot them near rivers, diving low to catch tiny fish with impressive dexterity.

Trees woods and wildlife

Nightjar

Mysterious and elusive, the nightjar is one of our most intriguing birds. A summer visitor with bark-like plumage, it can be incredibly difficult to spot.

About us

Achievements and outcomes

We've had a number of high profile achievements within central government. We've also seen notable successes working with local authorities to improve regional policies, delivery and development plans.

Press centre

Commercial and conservation sectors condemn Forest Grant Scheme cuts

Enormous cuts to the woodland grant budget will torpedo Scotland’s chances of meeting climate and nature targets.

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Igniting Innovation: conservation challenge

We want to see young minds bring innovative conservation ideas to life. Start your journey to make your mark on climate change and the health of people, woods and wildlife.

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Have a flutter

Play our raffle to be in with a chance to win a cash prize - all while supporting our work for woods and trees.

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10 best trees to attract birds and other wildlife

Native trees offer birds and other animals vital food and shelter all year round. Boost biodiversity with our top 10 trees suited to small gardens and larger spaces.

Charlie Mellor  •  02 May 2023

Trees woods and wildlife

Chestnut, sweet

Introduced by the Romans and a roasted winter treat. These long-lived giants, with their prickly-husks and deeply grooved bark, give us our classic Christmas nut.

About us

TreE PlaNat Project

The TreE PlaNat project explored land managers' views on different woodland creation methods, from planting to natural colonisation, and their impacts. 

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Terms and conditions

Igniting Innovation: youth conservation challenge. Full terms and conditions. 

Press centre

More than 10 million trees planted across the Northern Forest

More than 10 million trees have now been established across the North of England as part of the Northern Forest scheme, which launched in 2018.

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Woodland creation guide

Growing the right tree in the right place, for the right reason and in the right way is essential. Our best practice guide means we can work with others to deliver quality woodland creation at a landscape scale.

Blog

British trees and shrubs to plant: 14 native garden trees

British trees pack a big punch in your garden. Make space for one or two you’ll have year-round interest and be supporting wildlife too. Here's our top 14 native trees to plant in your garden.

Helen Keating  •  08 Nov 2021

Blog

Do bats hibernate in winter? And more bat facts

What do British bats do when winter is coming? Find out more about six UK bat species and what you can do to help them.

Joe Bates  •  03 Dec 2018

Plant trees

Tree pack FAQs

Got a question about our free tree packs? Take a look at our frequently asked questions.

Press centre

Young people's climate anxiety is soaring due to lack of access to green space

One in three young people in Britain are scared (33%), sad (34%) or pessimistic (34%) about climate change, with 28% feeling “overwhelmed”, according to a YouGov poll.

Trees woods and wildlife

Arkaig ospreys: your questions answered

We answer your questions about our Loch Arkaig ospreys, the nest cameras and their forest home.

About us

Saving Scotland's rainforest

We're working to ensure Scotland’s rainforests thrive once again. As part of the Alliance for Scotland’s Rainforest, we're on a mission to protect and enhance this globally important habitat for the special wildlife that depends upon it.

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Types of woodland management

A detailed look at how and when to carry out the techniques of coppicing, pollarding, formative pruning and thinning.

Plant trees

MOREwoods application guidance

Find out more about the MOREwoods scheme, for planting 500+ trees as woodland on at least half a hectare.

Press centre

Biggest ever tree planting year for fast-expanding Northern Forest

More than 1.9 million trees – enough to fill over 1,200 football pitches – were planted across the Northern Forest in the last year.

Press centre

Woodland Trust seeks major new corporate partner to empower young people through ‘Funding for the Future’

The Woodland Trust, recognised as the UK’s largest woodland conservation charity, is boldly seeking out the perfect business to work in partnership with to support an ambitious new programme of work.

About us

Our ambassadors

Our ambassadors help us stand up for trees. Find out all about them.

About us

Our trustees

We, like every other UK charity, are governed by a group of trustees who make up the Board. Learn more about them and their work with the Trust.

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Fundraise for us

Set your own challenge or host a community event to raise money for woods, trees and wildlife.

Trees woods and wildlife

Tree pests and diseases

Learn more about the pests and diseases threatening our trees. Find out how to spot them, the symptoms and outlook, and how you can help.

Partnerships

Nectar

Since 2021 we've worked with Nectar, owned by Sainsbury's, to make supporting the Woodland Trust even more rewarding. Nectar customers collect Nectar points when joining as members, get additional points when buying Woodland products in Sainsbury's, and can donate Nectar points to support our work.

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How to pay in funds raised

Finished your fundraising and ready to send in what you've raised? Find out how to get it to us.

About us

Our chief executive

Dr Darren Moorcroft is CEO of the Woodland Trust.

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Dedications

Be it a single tree or an acre of woodland with a personalised bench, your dedication will provide a long-lasting tribute that can be visited time after time – and support local wildlife too.

Video

Andrew Evans, farmer, Dol Llys Farm

Andrew introduces Dol Llys Farm and his ethos of balancing agriculture and conservation and the importance of long-term collaboration with others, to create a farm that benefits people and wildlife through tree planting.

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Trees woods and wildlife

Cocksfoot grass

Tenacious and hard to budge. When other grasses succumb to drought, cocksfoot can be relied on for its perseverance; its deep roots and dense, tussocky growth securing its survival.

Video

First-hand experience for further education students

See how students at Vision West Notts College, Mansfield, linked practical planting skills with written work for their qualifications.

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Trees woods and wildlife

Common wasp

These picnic ruiners might not be the UK's most popular invertebrate, but they are efficient pollinators.

Protecting trees and woods

Campaigns news

Discover the latest challenges and successes for woods and trees and find out how you can make a difference.

Partnerships

Premier Paper

We're helping Premier's clients combat their carbon emissions by planting trees.

Protecting trees and woods

Creu delweddau thermol o goed trefol yng Nghaerdydd

Gyda thymheredd cyfartalog a thonnau gwres yn mynd yn fwy dwys, comisiynwyd Ti Thermal Imaging Ltd i ddatgelu sut y gall coed ein helpu i ymdopi.

Protecting trees and woods

Thermal imaging of urban trees in Cardiff

With average temperatures and heatwaves getting more intense, we we commissioned Ti Thermal Imaging Ltd to reveal how trees can help us cope.

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1,000 woods appeal

No-one stands up for UK woods and trees like we do. With your help we can do even more to enhance and protect the woodland under our care.

Visiting woods

Spring's vital signs report 2025 

Find out about how frogspawn, blackthorn and song thrush are affected by a changing climate. 

Video

Restoring Craggach Wood to a productive and diverse native woodland

David Shepherd and Annie Griffiths own Craggach Wood near Inverness. They share the inspirational story of how they transformed a long-established woodland of plantation origin into a biologically and structurally diverse productive native woodland.

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Video

Torriano Primary School tackles climate change with Lauren Child

Watch the London school plant free trees with Charlie and Lola author, Lauren Child, to make a change for the better.

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Trees woods and wildlife

Elm, wych

Decimated by Dutch elm disease, the sweeping and majestic wych elm is a much rarer sight these days. Its loss goes hand-in-hand with the decline of the elusive white-letter hairstreak butterfly, whose caterpillars rely on elm leaves.

Protecting trees and woods

Kent quarry extension is one of the biggest threats of the 21st century

Having destroyed 32ha of ancient wood in 2013, new quarry plans threaten at least another 50ha. 

Press centre

Root of the problem: underfunding, underdelivering

This year’s woodland creation figures for Scotland are deeply disappointing. The numbers reflect not just a missed target, but another missed opportunity.

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Mead appeal, Derbyshire

With your help we can achieve our vision for Derbyshire's Young People's Forest and begin to realise its amazing potential.

About us

Our strategy

Our vision is optimistic: a world where woods and trees thrive for people and nature. Find out how we plan to achieve this over the next decade.

Video

How gifts in wills have made a difference: Smithills Estate

A third of all the work we do is made possible by gifts in wills. The Woodland Trust's Tracey Garrett explains how important this support is to help our work at places like Smithills Estate - a landscape we're restoring to benefit both wildlife and local people. 

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Blog

Woodland Walks podcast with Adam Shaw - Frodsham Woods, Cheshire

Join us for a planting day at Frodsham Woods where a former golf course is transforming into a space for people to enjoy, to fight climate change and help wildlife thrive.

Adam Shaw  •  28 Mar 2024

Blog

6 fast growing trees for your garden

Looking for screening, privacy or just want to green up your garden quickly? Check out our recommendations for a fast growing native tree to suit your space.

Charlie Mellor  •  20 Sep 2024

Protecting trees and woods

Ancient woods and trees will be lost for Lower Thames Crossing

Important woods, trees and wildlife remain at risk from National Highways proposals to build a new tunnel linking Essex and Kent under the River Thames.

Trees woods and wildlife

Wren

Plump, short and loud-mouthed, the wren is one of our most common breeding birds. Though it’s small in size, it makes up for it with its powerful song.

Video

Meet the people behind our work: Loch Arkaig

Hard graft. Passionate people. Expertise and skill. There's more to our woods than just trees. See for yourself what makes Loch Arkaig Pine Forest so special, and what it takes to keep it that way.

00:02:47

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The Man Who Planted Trees - KS2 assembly

Inspire your pupils with this thought-provoking tale that shows how one person's actions can make a lasting difference. This assembly can also support your school's tree-planting activities.

Press centre

Early signs of spring becoming the new norm, says the Woodland Trust

Earlier signs of spring – such as the first leafing of trees or the first sightings of butterflies – could be here to stay, says the Woodland Trust.

Blog

First signs of spring in nature

Spring is a glorious time in nature with new leaves, bright blooms and thriving wildlife. But when does spring really start and what are the key signs to look for?

Charlie Mellor  •  19 Feb 2021

Trees woods and wildlife

Elm, Huntingdon

A hardy cultivar, the Huntingdon elm is a hybrid with some resistance to the devastating Dutch elm disease.

Britains rainforests

Britain's rainforests

Bursting with biodiversity, Britain’s rainforests are some of our most vibrant ecosystems. Yet they’re also among the most threatened. Learn more about what makes these rare woodlands so important and why we’re working to save them.

Video

Meet the people behind our work: Llennyrch

Hard graft. Passionate people. Expertise and skill. There's more to our woods than just trees. See for yourself what makes Llennyrch so special, and what it takes to keep it that way.

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Gift Aid: increasing the power of your donation

Find out what Gift Aid is, how it works, and why it's so important for our charity.

Trees woods and wildlife

Cuckoo

A cunning master of misdirection, the cuckoo’s reputation precedes it. These brood parasites spook woodland birds from their nests, then lay their own eggs in them to be brought up by the host.

Trees woods and wildlife

Tawny owl

Hooting woodland hunter with silent wings. Without a sound, the tawny owl descends from its lofty perch to snatch unsuspecting rodents from the forest floor below.

Trees woods and wildlife

Sparrowhawk

With brilliant yellow eyes and long yellow talons, this small yet skilful predator swoops down to ambush its prey unawares. Strongly reliant on woodland, the sparrowhawk has been threatened in the past but is currently widespread throughout the UK.

Trees woods and wildlife

Wild garlic

A delicious sign of the old, wild garlic is also known as ramsons. Look for them in shady woods where they coat the woodland floor in spring.

Trees woods and wildlife

Speckled bush-cricket

What’s bright green, spotty and loves a bramble bush? The speckled bush-cricket thrives in shrubs and grasses in hedgerows and woodland edges.

Trees woods and wildlife

Sand martin

These social summer visitors can be seen flitting from the river to their signature tunnel nests from March to October.

Trees woods and wildlife

Penny bun

Weighty, fat and delicious with a cap like a crusty, well-baked bun. Penny buns, or ceps, are prized for their taste and benefits to woodland, tree and human health.

Press centre

New community woodland taking shape near Billington

Work is well underway on a new community woodland planned for Billington in Lancashire.

Blog

Do robins migrate? When garden birds migrate and return

Find out when robins – and other unexpected garden birds – migrate to and from our shores.

Charlotte Varela  •  10 May 2019

Trees woods and wildlife

Beechwood sickener

Toxic, brittle, red-capped. Beechwood sickener is only found in beech woodland and help beech trees take up nutrients from the soil.

Trees woods and wildlife

White admiral

Found exclusively in woodland, the white admiral is a stunning butterfly with a delicate gliding flight. Unlike its sun-loving peers, this black and white beauty prefers shady spots to relax in.

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Living Legends appeal

Our living legends are vital for wildlife, people and the planet, but they have virtually no legal protection. Help us fight for their future.

Video

How gifts in wills have made a difference: Avoncliff Wood

A third of all the work we do is made possible by gifts in wills. Find out more about the difference they've made to Avoncliff Wood, a beautiful wood in the Cotswolds that's also helping to combat the use of plastic on our estate. 

00:03:00

Trees woods and wildlife

Oak, red

Fiery, fast and spiked, the red oak is a fast-growing tree native to North America. It is often planted as an ornamental tree for its flaming autumn colour. Although it isn’t as valuable to wildlife as our native oaks, it’s popular with nesting birds and pollinators.

Blog

How big is a queen wasp? And where to see one

Have you ever seen a giant wasp when out working in the garden or visiting the woods? If so, it's likely you'll have spotted a queen wasp. Find out how big they are, where to spot them and more.

Charlotte Varela  •  12 Mar 2024

Blog

What is a seed bank, how does it work and why is it important?

Discover the vital work of seed banks, including facts and figures on why we store so many seeds, how long for and how they might be used in the future.  

Rebecca Gosling  •  02 Dec 2020

Blog

9 carnivorous plants to spot in the UK

Did you know there are carnivorous plants in the UK? Take a look at some of the predatory and parasitic plants you could spot in our woods and wetlands.

Charlotte Varela  •  28 Jun 2023

Press centre

First trees planted as charity tees up to turn abandoned golf course into wildlife haven

School children are set to plant the first of 30,000 trees at Frodsham, Cheshire in an ambitious project to turn fairways into forest and greens into glades.

Protecting trees and woods

Government’s nature recovery plans in England fall short

Government plans to halt nature’s decline in England by 2030 don't go far enough. We need more meaningful action to save our wildlife and environment.

Trees woods and wildlife

Pear, Plymouth

Rare, charming, foul-smelling. Plymouth pear was named after where it was found in the 1800s. Its fruit feeds wildlife, and its blossom, though beautiful, has quite a smell.

Trees woods and wildlife

Adder

Shy but full of surprises, the adder is the UK’s only venomous snake. It spends its days in woodland, soaking up the sun and swallowing its prey whole.

Trees woods and wildlife

Barbastelle bat

Distinctive, rare, elusive. The barbastelle bat lives in deciduous woodland and looks unlike any other bat. If you’re lucky, you might spot it hunting in wet woodland.

Video

Bishop's Knoll Wood volunteers

Find out more about Bishop's Knoll Wood's volunteer group and why they were nominated for an award.

00:03:40

Trees woods and wildlife

Weasel

Relentless and always hungry. What they lack in size, weasels make up for in appetite, eating a third of their own body weight daily. From birds to bank voles, the small creatures of the forest floor must be ever wary of this energetic hunter.

Press centre

Crunch time for trees as petition calling for new protection laws is handed in

A petition calling for stronger laws to protect iconic trees has been handed to the government, the UK’s largest woodland conservation charity has confirmed.

About us

Tree guards: research into plastic-free alternatives

Our bold pledge to stop using new single-use plastic tree guards on our land in 2021 put us at the forefront of the movement to eradicate plastic from planting schemes UK-wide. We’re funding research to find viable alternatives and are now moving towards sustainable tree protection in other areas.

Press centre

Lauren Child helps children smile with free trees

Much-loved children’s author Lauren Child has urged schools and community groups across the UK to take advantage of the Woodland Trust’s free trees scheme.

Protecting trees and woods

Norwich Western Link road threatens ancient woods and trees

Road plans in Norfolk threaten ancient woods and trees and the wildlife that live there. Find out what’s at stake and how you can help.

Protecting trees and woods

Scotland's nature needs help to recover and thrive

We need a robust delivery strategy for biodiversity in Scotland.

Plant trees

Woodland Carbon

Get paid for planting new woodland for areas of over 5 hectares with our Woodland Carbon scheme. Your new woodland will be assessed for its carbon-locking potential and you'll be paid in Woodland Carbon Units with associated costs covered, too.

Blog

Early spring flowers quiz: 12 flowering plants and shrubs

Want to identify blooms spotted on a refreshing woodland walk or bring some early colour to your garden? Take our quiz to discover some of the most common early flowerers.

Charlie Mellor  •  11 Feb 2021

Trees woods and wildlife

Fox

A born survivor with a bushy tail. Ever adaptable, the fox is equally at home in our woods or city streets. It sits top of the woodland food chain with a diet that takes in everything from birds and beetles to rabbits and rats.

About us

The Northern Forest

The North of England has significantly less woodland cover than the rest of the country, but not for much longer. With our partners we are planting 50 million trees and transforming the landscape of northern England.

Press centre

Eryri leads the way with 100-year vision to protect and restore native trees

The Woodland Trust in Wales is celebrating the launch of Eryri's Tree and Woodland Strategy 2025–2125 as the most ambitious, forward-thinking vision for trees and woodlands anywhere in the UK.

Blog

How to calculate and reduce your carbon footprint

Learn how to calculate your carbon footprint and the role trees can play in helping to limit your environmental impact.

James Martin  •  16 Jan 2020

About us

Review of the year

Take a look at the major milestones in our work for woods and trees between June 2023 and May 2024.

Blog

Dedicate in memory: remember a loved one with trees and woodland

Dedicating a tree or woodland provides a living, growing memorial to a loved one and a poignant way of remembering them. Dedications are available in Woodland Trust woods across the UK.

Charlie Mellor  •  14 Feb 2024

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Apêl Coed Brynau, Castell-nedd

Rydyn ni gam ar y blaen i adfer coetir hynafol a gwerthfawr Fferm Brynau. Erbyn hyn, mae gennym ni gyfle i fwy na dyblu maint y safle hwn. Helpwch ni i brynu Cefn Morfudd ac ehangu’r hafan dawel hon ar gyfer bywyd gwyllt brodorol.

Press centre

GPs urge policymakers to invest in green space to reduce NHS pressure

Policymakers must prioritise the environment to improve the health of the nation and ease pressure on the NHS, say doctors.

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Ben Shieldaig appeal, West Highlands

This breathtaking slice of Caledonian pine forest – part of Scotland's rainforest and our first ever mountain – now has a bright future.

Video

A new wood full of potential for business and nature

In 2021, Chelsea Wills and Phil Johncock planted a spectacular six-acre nature reserve above Lee Bay, North Devon with MOREwoods. Just three years later, they're holding woodland yoga sessions and have plans to coppice trees for their artisan woodworking business.

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Trees woods and wildlife

Redwing

Named after its rouge underwings, the redwing is the smallest thrush in the UK. A social nomad, this berry-loving bird only visits over the winter months, with just a handful of breeding pairs staying here all year round.

Video

Andy Black - volunteer warden

Find out more about Andy's volunteering and why he was nominated for an award.

00:02:59

Blog

British newts: an identification guide

Learn to tell the difference between the UK's three newt species with our quick and easy identification guide.

Amy Lewis  •  19 Feb 2020

Press centre

High Alert installation takes public art into the woods

The Woodland Trust Northern Ireland is hosting a public art exhibition by Rob Hilken at three of its sites in August and September.

Press centre

Woodland Trust says support home-grown tree nurseries to reduce disease risk

The Woodland Trust is urging the Government to continue support for UK tree nurseries to counter the threat posed by spiralling tree imports.

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Got a question about your carbon donation?

Got a query about your carbon donation? Here are the most frequently asked questions.

Protecting trees and woods

HS2 rail link

HS2 is a grave threat to the UK’s ancient woods and veteran trees, with many at risk of loss or damage. We can’t let this happen. 

Trees woods and wildlife

Brown trout

A powerful predator and an iconic British fish, the brown trout is a common sight in streams and rivers throughout the UK.

Blog

How to tell male and female ospreys apart

How do you tell male and female ospreys apart? And how can you tell the difference between our resident Loch Arkaig pair, Louis and Dorcha, and other local birds?

George Anderson  •  05 Apr 2023

Press centre

Skipinnish Oak crowned UK Tree of the Year 2024

A centuries-old oak nestled in the heart of Lochaber, Scotland, has been dubbed ‘Tree of the Year’ in the Woodland Trust’s prestigious competition.

Trees woods and wildlife

Mistle thrush

Britain’s largest songbird. Renowned for defending its food supply. Named for its love of mistletoe berries.

Blog

11 animals that live in the UK's rainforest 

Discover the weird and wonderful animals living in our very own rainforests.

Annabel Kemp  •  19 Jun 2025

Blog

Reintroducing lost species

Species reintroductions are becoming increasingly important in restoring lost parts of an ecosystem. We discuss the issues, considerations and opportunities.

Karen Hornigold  •  29 Jan 2019

Trees woods and wildlife

Bank vole 

Stout but speedy, the bank vole skitters around woodland and dense vegetation looking for blackberries, nuts and fungi. It uses its large ears to listen out for its many predators, such as the fox and kestrel.

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2024's winning projects

Discover six exciting projects that are helping to protect woods, trees and wildlife as part of our latest Igniting Innovation conservation challenge.

Blog

Dawn Chorus: why do birds sing in the morning?

Learn why birds sing in the morning and other facts about the dawn chorus.

James Martin  •  19 Apr 2019

Trees woods and wildlife

Scaly male fern

Poised, damp-loving, hardy. The scaly male fern is a tough old specimen that thrives in damp woodland, as well as on open heaths and hillsides.

Video

Sibsey Wood volunteers

Find out more about the Sibsey Wood volunteers and why they were nominated for an award.

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Blog

6 rare moths that depend on UK trees

The UK is home to a number of moths that depend on trees. Explore moth species that you'd be lucky to encounter on a woodland walk.

Julia Lock  •  12 Jul 2022

Plant trees

Funding a community wood

Our advice on how to seek funding for your community wood, from buying the site and trees to on-going maintenance. 

Trees woods and wildlife

Long-eared owl

Wise and regal, with an imposing stare and elusive nature. Our most nocturnal owl, with a penchant for recycling other bird’s old nests. It lives in dense woodland and is a skilful hunter.

Press centre

Research shows only 12% of local authorities have an action plan for nature recovery

The Woodland Trust is urging local authorities to declare a nature emergency and take steps to restore severely depleted wildlife and green spaces in their communities.

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2025's winning projects

Meet the six young finalists whose brilliant projects won our Igniting Innovation conservation challenge.

Blog

Best woods near 10 UK cities

Here's our pick of great woods in and around the UK's busiest cities for sanctuary seekers, wildlife watchers, fitness fans and history hounds alike.

Charlie Mellor  •  04 Nov 2021

Press centre

Tree equity map shows less affluent areas have less tree cover

People in less affluent areas have lower levels of tree cover and a higher risk of health problems from poor air quality, new online tree equity map reveals.

Blog

Easy blackberry recipes

Forage for blackberries to make blackberry crumble, bramble flapjack, summer fruits pudding, and a sweet blackberry sauce.

Danielle Wesley  •  27 Aug 2019

Protecting trees and woods

All-Party Parliamentary Group for Woods and Trees

The APPG meets several times a year to discuss steps to protect, restore and expand woods and trees in a time of climate and nature crises.  

Press centre

Budget Day 2024: what Holyrood should do for woods and trees

If Scotland is to meet its climate goals and restore nature to a thriving condition, we need more native trees and woods, and we need them in good condition.

Press centre

Tree planting progress ‘near glacial' as Government releases new figures

Government tree planting figures published today show that targets to create new woodland in England have been missed again.

Plant trees

The Queen’s Green Canopy

We’re proud to have honoured Her late Majesty's reign by planting trees and woods across the UK with you as part of The Queen’s Green Canopy.   

Press centre

Drone sows 75,000 native tree seeds to triple rainforest cover in Cornwall and Devon

An ambitious drone tree-seeding trial in the South West could revolutionise the expansion of rainforests.

Trees woods and wildlife

Goldcrest

A tiny bird with a big hairdo. The goldcrest is our smallest bird species, but what it lacks in size it makes up for in colour.

Press centre

Faughan Valley Woodlands officially opens unveiling a haven for nature and people

Small fragmented woodlands along and across the River Faughan have been connected to benefit people, nature and climate in Northern Ireland.

Protecting trees and woods

Tree cover target leaves room for improvement

We need well-connected woodlands, rich in native trees that fight climate change and help nature to recover.

Blog

7 signs of winter in nature

Winter is a magical time, with crisp mornings and chilly starlit evenings. Discover when winter really starts and some of the best signs to look and listen out for.

Charlie Mellor  •  26 Nov 2021

Press centre

Music legend Nile Rodgers says ‘we are family’ to trees in Northern Ireland

American music legend Nile Rodgers and his We Are Family Foundation are throwing their weight behind woodland and community in Northern Ireland's Faughan Valley.

Blog

Rowan jelly: how to find and make it

Rowan, with its fiery red berries, is a tree that's difficult to miss at the moment. If you want to try foraging this is a great way to start. Get top identification tips and a step-by-step recipe on how to make rowan jelly.

Helen Keating  •  13 Aug 2018

Press centre

New population of rare heath fritillary found in Kent

The heath fritillary, one of the UK’s rarest butterflies, has been discovered for the first time at the Woodland Trust’s Victory Wood in Kent.

Blog

Grass snake or adder? How to tell the difference between UK reptiles

Discover more about our common native reptiles and where you can find them with this snakes and lizards guide.

Karen Hornigold  •  01 Feb 2018

Press centre

Survey reveals most Scots unaware Scotland has rainforest

Research indicates most people living in Scotland’s west coast rainforest zone have no idea the threatened habitat is right on their doorstep. But when they find out, the majority are enthusiastic about protecting and expanding it.

Press centre

GB plant biosecurity strategy is a missed opportunity

The Government today published its Plant Biosecurity Strategy for Great Britain. Read our reaction.

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Support our Urban Woodland Appeal

Urban woods are the green lungs at the heart of communities, essential for the health of people and wildlife. Help give them a future.

Trees woods and wildlife

Oak, sessile

Less famous than English oak, but no less loved, the sessile oak towers in the woods. Squirrels, jays and badgers love their acorns and caterpillars flock to eat their leaves, in fact 326 species of wildlife are found only on oak.

Trees woods and wildlife

Oak, English

The ruling majesty of the woods, the wise old English oak holds a special place in our culture, history, and hearts. It supports more life than any other native tree species in the UK; even its fallen leaves support biodiversity.

Blog

How to prune apple trees in winter

Follow these simple winter pruning tips to keep your apple trees looking good and producing a great crop each season.

Helen Keating  •  22 Dec 2017

Trees woods and wildlife

Hedgehog

Sleepy, cute, truly iconic. These prickly critters rely on hedgerows and woodland edges for food and shelter.

Press centre

Highland lodge announced as Scottish Rainforest Centre

95-year old Couldoran House will be reborn as the Scottish Rainforest Centre and operate as a hub in efforts to conserve the rare and threatened habitat.

Partnerships

Bettys & Taylors Group

Bettys & Taylors Group are partnering with the Woodland Trust at its flagship woodland creation project in the Yorkshire Dales.

Press centre

Success for Wales-wide tree planting project as 300,000 trees find homes

Thousands of households have planted trees through the My Tree, Our Forest project, helping to kickstart a National Forest for Wales.

Blog

Hazelnuts: where and when to forage

Our tips on where and when to find hazelnuts in the wild, how to prepare these tasty treats, and the woodland animals that love eating them too.

Laura Cottam  •  05 Aug 2019

Trees woods and wildlife

Osprey

Expert fisherman and a conservation success story. Back from the brink of extinction, the mighty osprey is breeding once again in every country of the UK.

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Cookie policy

Our cookie policy relates to your use of our website and social media pages, for example Facebook, Twitter, Youtube and Instagram.

Support us

Fundraising FAQs

Advice on fundraising for the Woodland Trust, getting your money to us, and on how we spend your money.

Blog

The best elderberry recipes

Make the most of dark, fragrant elderberries while they’re in season. Try our favourite elderberry recipes.

Helen Keating  •  28 Sep 2022

Support us

2023's winning projects

Discover the winning projects that are impacting woods and trees through our very first Igniting Innovation challenge.

Blog

What is a mast year? How and why it happens

Discover what a mast year is, what it means for trees and wildlife and what the data tells us about autumn 2020.

Lorienne Whittle  •  27 Oct 2020

Blog

Wild marjoram: what is it, where to find it and how to plant it

It's a herb we sprinkle liberally on pizza and pasta. And so we'd be forgiven for thinking oregano, also known as wild marjoram, only grows around the Mediterranean. But did you know it's actually native to the UK?

Helen Keating  •  10 Jul 2018

Protecting trees and woods

Minutes of the APPG meeting 14 July 2025

Read the official minutes for a full list of attendees and more details of what was discussed on the day.

Blog

Our top five woods to hear nightingales

The famous song of the nightingale is one of the wonders of the natural world, but to have a chance of hearing it you'll need to know where to listen. Here we share top tips for tracking down a serenade, plus some of our woods to try for a lucky encounter.

Amy Lewis  •  01 Apr 2022

Press centre

Former golf course becomes wooded haven for wildlife

A former golf course in north Cheshire is to be transformed by the Woodland Trust into a haven for nature and a wild place for communities to visit for years to come.

Plant trees

Creating a woodland: planning and design

Growing a wood from scratch is an ambitious undertaking, but thorough planning will put you on the path to success.

Press centre

Coedwigoedd a choed Cymru 'dan fygythiad difrifol' yn ol adroddiad newydd 

Mae adroddiad newydd gan y Woodland Trust yn darparu tystiolaeth o ganlyniadau peri-fygythiol niferus i goedwigoedd a choed ledled y DU.

Trees woods and wildlife

Bluebell

Enchanting and iconic, bluebells are a favourite with the fairies and a sure sign spring is in full swing. The violet glow of a bluebell wood is an incredible wildflower spectacle. 

Trees woods and wildlife

Red-necked longhorn beetle

The red-necked longhorn beetle is native to eastern Asia and is a serious threat to trees in the genus Prunus like cherries and plums. Its larvae tunnel and feed under the bark and in the wood causing low fruit yield and possible death.

Blog

When do hedgehogs hibernate? And other animals that hibernate

As temperatures start to fall, wildlife turns its attentions to surviving the winter. But where do hedgehogs and other species go in the worst weather?

Charlie Mellor  •  18 Sep 2020

Trees woods and wildlife

Bilberry

Traditional healer and tea-time favourite. This low-growing shrub has potent medicinal powers harnessed for almost a thousand years, while its blue-black berries make excellent jams, pies and liqueurs.

Blog

Stoat or weasel? How to tell the difference

Did you see a stoat on your last woodland walk? Or perhaps it was a weasel? Our guide will help you to tell these pint-sized predators apart. We also take a look at some of the other related species found here in the UK.

James Martin  •  01 Feb 2019

Trees woods and wildlife

Great spruce bark beetle

The great spruce bark beetle damages spruce trees by tunnelling into the bark. This pest was accidentally introduced into the UK in 1982 and now has become established in Western England, Wales and Southern Scotland.

Press centre

Rhododendron is destroying our native wildlife

Popular for its pretty flowers, Rhododendron ponticum is an invasive non-native species and is damaging native woods and wildlife.

Press centre

New report reveals serious threat to Welsh woods and trees

A Woodland Trust report provides evidence of multiple threats that pose catastrophic consequences for woods and trees across the UK.

Plant trees

Agroforestry benefits farming, nature and climate

Integrating trees in arable crops and livestock systems makes agroforestry a win-win for sustainable food production and the natural environment.

Press centre

Five reasons to celebrate World Rainforest Day

World Rainforest Day is celebrated on 22 June and with good reason. Here are five ways rainforests help us.

Blog

Winter berries: what are they and where to find them

Winter berries are a vital food source for wildlife and can be foraged to make delicious seasonal treats too. Here are our tips on when and where to find them.

Charlie Mellor  •  29 Nov 2018

Blog

Top 10 green gifts for gardeners

Looking for eco-friendly inspiration for your favourite gardening guru or want to encourage a beginner? From windowsill pots to established veg plots, our green gift guide has got you covered.

Charlie Mellor  •  11 Oct 2024

Blog

10 eco-friendly gifts for under £10

On a budget this Christmas? We’ve handpicked 10 affordable eco-friendly gifts that show you care for your loved ones and the environment too.

Charlie Mellor  •  23 Oct 2024

Blog

Are acorns edible? And other acorn facts

Acorns are a favourite dish of many woodland creatures, but did you know humans can eat them too? Here are some great recipes and more fascinating acorn facts.

Emilie Bonnevay  •  03 Sep 2019

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Snaizeholme appeal, North Yorkshire

Thanks to your support, we have the chance to turn a tree-less landscape into a thriving haven for red squirrels and declining woodland birds in the Yorkshire Dales National Park. 

Blog

How do heatwaves affect wildlife?

As the UK experiences extreme heat and drought, we take a look at the potentially catastrophic effects of heatwaves on wildlife from early fruit ripening to a false autumn.

Fritha West  •  10 Aug 2022

Trees woods and wildlife

Why we need trees

We desperately need trees to help fight climate change, save wildlife, improve our health, and more.

Blog

UK moth identification and facts: 12 common species for beginners

There are more than 870 species of large moth in the UK, many of which can be tricky for beginners to tell apart. Get to know some of the UK's most familiar and easily-identified species with our quick guide.

Amy Lewis  •  02 Jun 2021

Trees woods and wildlife

Can woods and trees reduce flooding?

Trees and woods play a vital role in reducing flooding by slowing down the flow of rainwater, absorbing rainwater, and reducing erosion.

Trees woods and wildlife

Acute oak decline

Our native oaks are under pressure like never before. They are declining at an unprecedented rate due to drought, flooding, pollution, pests and diseases.

Blog

Raw rosehip syrup: how to make and use

Rosehips really became popular during World War II when fresh produce was scarce. Here are our tips for finding and cooking up these surprisingly tasty fruits.

George Anderson  •  31 Jul 2019

Plant trees

UK sourced and grown trees: why is it important to buy them?

Buying UK sourced and grown trees is the best way to prevent the spread of imported pests and diseases.

Trees woods and wildlife

Ancient woodland

Home to myth and legend, where folk tales began. It fuelled our ancestors and still houses thousands of species. Ancient woodland has grown and adapted with native wildlife, yet what remains only covers 2.5% of the UK.

Press centre

11 weird and wonderful wildlife of our rainforests

From a stinky fish-smelling lichen to one which looks like a dragon’s skin, to the world’s largest slug with the strangest mating ritual – the weird and wonderful wildlife of our rainforests.

Blog

11 waterfall walks to visit in our woods

From gently tumbling streams to powerful cascades, waterfalls are mesmerising. Check out the best waterfall walks in and around our woods across the UK.

Charlie Mellor  •  15 Jan 2021

Trees woods and wildlife

Pine marten reintroduction: how we're helping and where to find them

Once persecuted to extinction, find out how we're helping pine martens make a welcome return to the UK's woods.

Press centre

Groundbreaking scientific research project at Snaizeholme will tackle the impacts of extreme weather

One of the biggest pieces of scientific research ever undertaken in the English uplands will tackle the impacts of extreme weather.

Press centre

Politicians plant six millionth tree of the Northern Forest

A host of dignitaries joined together to plant the six millionth tree of the Northern Forest, marking five years since the start of the ambitious project to link up Liverpool and Hull with trees.

Blog

Environmentally-friendly gardening: 10 top tips

Work with nature to make your garden eco-friendly and cut your environmental impact. Check out our 10 easy tips that are good for wildlife and your wallet too!

Charlie Mellor  •  16 Apr 2024

Blog

10 ways to help wildlife in spring

We can all make a difference for wildlife this season, from a single simple action to an ongoing commitment, at home or further afield. Read our ten top tips.

Charlie Mellor  •  01 Mar 2023

Video

Restoration techniques at Raincliffe Woods

We're working with Raincliffe Community Woodland Enterprise to restore ancient woodland at Raincliffe Woods, near Scarborough. Site manager Mark Feather addresses some of the common concerns and explains the techniques being used at the site.

00:06:58

Blog

10 common garden birds to spot on your bird feeder

Find out all about the common British garden birds, what to feed them and how to identify them.

Hannah Vickers  •  21 Mar 2019

Plant trees

Help us create more river woodland

Find out how river woodland planting can increase river health, help prevent flooding and boost biodiversity.

Press centre

Woodland Trust £2.9 million to fund trees and green spaces for local communities

The Trust has given communities a boost by providing much needed funding for cash strapped local authorities to plant trees and create green spaces.

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Nectar terms and conditions

When you collect Nectar points with Woodland Trust membership or donate Nectar points to us, you accept the terms and conditions set out here.

Blog

Red squirrel facts

The red squirrel is the UK's only native squirrel species, and was once a common sight. But for decades they’ve been in decline. Find out why they are threatened and other fascinating facts.

Helen Keating  •  01 Nov 2018

Support us

Ancient woodland restoration appeal 

Almost half the UK's ancient woodland is badly damaged. Together, we can bring it back to life.

Blog

6 migrant birds to spot in the UK this winter

Not all birds head south for the winter. Some head straight for our shores to escape even colder conditions back home. Here are some of the winter birds you'll only find in the UK in winter.

Charlotte Varela  •  21 Jan 2025

Press centre

Inspiring ‘cultural trees’ shortlisted for Tree of the Year 2025

From a cedar that The Beatles climbed to an oak from a Virginia Woolf poem, discover the cultural trees shortlisted for Tree of the Year 2025.

Blog

6 woods in the Domesday Book and other centuries-old UK woods

Ancient woods are centuries old, irreplaceable wildlife homes and carbon-crunchers, packed with fascinating history. Discover some of our amazing ancient woods in the UK, why they’re so special and how you can help protect them.

Charlie Mellor  •  27 Feb 2023

Press centre

Gallai dull teg a hyblyg fodloni gofynion gorchudd coed ar gyfer ffermydd Cymru

Gall cyllid teg a dull hyblyg wneud y gofyniad gorchudd coed lleiaf o 10% yn gyraeddadwy ar gyfer y rhan fwyaf o ffermydd, medd Coed Cadw yng Nghymru.

Press centre

Fair and flexible approach could meet tree cover requirement for Welsh farms

Fair funding and a flexible approach can make the 10% minimum tree cover requirement achievable for most farms, says the Woodland Trust in Wales.

Plant trees

MOREhedges application guidance

Find out more about the MOREhedges scheme, for hedges over 100 metres with a large tree every six metres.

Blog

7 amazing woodland wildlife walks in Scotland

From otters and ospreys to fascinating fungi and flowers, Scotland's wildlife and scenery are spectacular. Check out 7 of our favourite woods for wildlife walks.

Charlie Mellor  •  15 Jul 2022

Trees woods and wildlife

Why woods are good for our health and wellbeing

Along with improving our quality of life, woods and green spaces can help make us physically and mentally healthier. 

Press centre

Farmers share tales of 'living legends' and nature on their land

From an ancient oak which survived a hit from a Lancaster Bomber in World War Two to a 150-year-old pear tree – classically taken portraits tell a story of how farmers are helping to protect ancient and veteran trees.

Plant trees

Managing your new woodland

Woodland management requires long term planning. Learn about the observations and actions needed over a wood’s lifetime.

Plant trees

How to plant and maintain native hedges

The small but mighty hedge packs a punch for people and nature, sheltering wildlife, cleaning our air, capturing carbon and much more. Explore how and when to plant and prune your hedge for the best results.​