Search our site

Trees woods and wildlife

Lime, common

At home on a country estate or deep in the wild, this lime is common in name only. It’s a hybrid between the small-leaved and large-leaved lime, and is a particular favourite of aphids and their many predators.

Trees woods and wildlife

Lime, large-leaved

Towering, romantic, sticky. Large-leaved lime is a handsome broadleaf tree that is a rich home for wildlife. Find out more.

Trees woods and wildlife

Lime, small-leaved

Charming, sturdy, pollinator-magnet. Not only does the small-leaved lime’s blossom produce a sweet scent and pleasantly minty honey, its leaves support the caterpillars of moths such as the lime hawk, peppered and vapourer.

Blog

How long do spiders live? And other spider facts

Discover more about spiders like how long they live, how many eyes they have, how big UK species can grow and more.

Rachel Hoskins  •  09 Sept 2019

Blog

Life cycle of a frog: how do amphibians reproduce?

This time of year is perfect for spotting amphibians on their way to mate. Find out how they attract mates, reproduce and develop.

Rachel Hoskins  •  09 Apr 2019

Blog

Life cycle of a plant: seeds, shoots and roots

Plant lives have a beginning and end just like ours. Here's a roundup of the different stages plants go through, from a new seed to eventual death.

Sally Bavin  •  02 Mar 2021

About us

What it's like to work here

Like our trees, we want people to grow and thrive. Find out what it's like to work here from the people behind our work.

Blog

Endangered trees: a guide to 7 rare trees in the UK

A guide to seven threatened tree species with photos and information on where they live, what they look like, conservation efforts and how you can help.

Chris Britt-Searle  •  10 Sept 2024

Blog

The oldest tree in the UK: how long do trees live?

Discover the oldest tree in the UK - and the world - and why ancient trees are so important.

Charlie Mellor  •  29 Jan 2024

Blog

Ticks: what do they look like and how to remove them

Learn how to identify ticks and the steps you can take to avoid them when walking in woodland.

Rachel Hoskins  •  15 May 2019

Blog

Forest animals: 9 animals adapted to forest life

From scampering squirrels to beautiful butterflies, discover how our woodland species are perfectly adapted to a life among the trees.

Charlotte Varela  •  09 May 2019

Journal

Wood Wise – life in deadwood

The autumn 2019 issue of Wood Wise dispels any myths about deadwood and raises awareness of its importance to people and wildlife.

PDF  (4.01 MB)

Blog

What do moths eat? Feeding, life cycle and other facts

Explore how some of the 2,500 species of UK moth develop and what they eat. 

Julia Lock  •  09 May 2022

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.

Blog

What does fox poo look like? And other animal poo identification tips

It may be messy and a little bit smelly, but animal poo can tell us a lot about the wildlife in our woods and gardens.

Charlotte Varela  •  20 Sept 2022

Blog

7 galls to spot this year

Have you spotted something unusual growing on a tree recently? It looks like it might be a bumper year for galls, so here are 7 you might see this summer.

Emilie Bonnevay  •  31 Jul 2018

Trees woods and wildlife

Flat-backed millipede

Many-legged leaf eaters that live a secretive life hidden among the forest floor.

Blog

Wander through history: fascinating ruins and relics in 10 UK woods

Walk back in time and discover heritage sites and historical ruins in some of the UK’s most enthralling woodlands, from ramparts and barrows to abandoned buildings and bomb shelters.

Chris Britt-Searle  •  01 Mar 2024

Trees woods and wildlife

Beech, common

Monumental, majestic, home to rare wildlife. Beech is an enchanting species and known as the queen of British trees. To wander beneath the leafy canopy, its cathedral-like branches spreading upwards, is an awe-inspiring experience.

Trees woods and wildlife

Mayfly

Known for its short adult life, the mayfly is here for a good time, not a long time. Emerging between May and August, it dances above freshwater rivers and lakes to find a mate.

Support us

Volunteer with us

Every year, thousands of people give their precious time to help us protect and care for woods and trees.

Protecting trees and woods

Neighbourhood planning

Woods and trees can help make your community a healthier, wealthier and happier place to live and work.

Trees woods and wildlife

Oak trees and wildlife

Our fantastic oaks support more life than any other UK native tree. Discover which species live and feed on oak, from foxes and fungi to bats and beetles.

Blog

Witches' brooms: what they look like and why they form

Witches' brooms look like a dense tangled bird nest. But what are they and what causes them?

Annabel Kemp  •  12 Nov 2024

About us

Lost Woods of the Low Weald and Downs

We're bringing life back to neglected and fragmented ancient woods in Sussex to boost biodiversity and revitalise woodland skills.

Video

BBC Community Life Appeal supports Woodland Trust Northern Ireland

Tune into BBC NI this September to find out from the Woodland Trust how you can play your part in the fight against climate change.

00:04:03

Protecting trees and woods

Election candidates need to make clear plans for woods and trees

Successful candidates in England’s 2024 local and mayoral elections need to recognise the value of trees and woods where you live.

Video

Tree Charter in action - Sheffield

Find out how Green City Heritage have been bringing the Tree Charter to life in Sheffield after signing up as a Charter Branch.

00:02:05

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. 

Trees woods and wildlife

Brook lamprey

Reclusive, primitive and eel-like. The brook lamprey is an ancient and rarely seen fish found in the rivers and streams of several of our woods. It lives most of its life as a larva buried in the silty stream bed before turning into an adult and swimming upstream to spawn - its last act before it dies.

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.

About us

Our commitment to diversity and inclusion

We believe everyone, no matter who they are or where they live, deserves to benefit from woods and trees.

Protecting trees and woods

Newly elected MPs must champion woods and trees

Successful candidates in the 2024 General Election should recognise the value of trees and woods where you live.

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.

Trees woods and wildlife

Wild strawberry

Sweet in both flower and in taste, wild strawberries flourish on woodland edges and in hedgerows. Spot them in bloom in spring and in fruit in summer.

Trees woods and wildlife

Broadleaved woodland

Sun-dappled and ever-changing, broadleaved woodland across the UK provides ideal conditions for more species than you can count! We fight to protect it, and make much more, but, the UK is still one of the least wooded countries in Europe.

Protecting trees and woods

Our work with The Climate Coalition

We're an active member of The Climate Coalition, a group of over 100 organisations dedicated to limiting the impact of climate change on the people, places and life we love.

Trees woods and wildlife

Loch Arkaig osprey cam

Follow the story of our Loch Arkaig ospreys, live from the heart of an ancient Caledonian pine forest. 

Support us

Give in memory

Celebrate the life of a loved one with a special gift, woodland memorial or donation in memory.

Trees woods and wildlife

Microhabitats

Small yet mighty, these vibrant hubs of life are essential for biodiversity. Peek into the miniature worlds hidden within our trees. 

Blog

When do frogs spawn? And how to spot them

Find out when frogs spawn and the best time to spot these fascinating jellified clumps in ponds near you.

Karen Hornigold  •  18 Apr 2019

Protecting trees and woods

Priorities for local councils in Northern Ireland

Ask candidates in Northern Ireland to support trees and woods where you live using our list of priorities.

Blog

Are caterpillars insects? And other caterpillar facts

Curious about caterpillars? Find out if they’re insects, what they eat and learn about their fascinating life cycle.

Danielle Wesley  •  15 May 2019

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

When are conkers ready? Plus, tips for how to play

Discover the best time to collect conkers and how to prepare them for a conker fight.

Danielle Wesley  •  27 Sept 2021

Trees woods and wildlife

Jelly ear

Velvety and a little disconcerting, the jelly ear looks just like an ear growing off decaying branches.

About us

Glas-na-Bradan Wood: a new beginning

Glas-na-Bradan Wood will be transformed into a new native woodland and for the first time in the Woodland Trust’s history in Northern Ireland, will be planted completely by the public. 

Trees woods and wildlife

Oak bush-cricket

This champion of the woodland long-jump is a lot quieter than its other cricket cousins. The oak bush-cricket lives, feeds and breeds in trees and woodland.

About us

Restoring Wales’ rivers

The Four Rivers for LIFE project is an ambitious initiative aimed at restoring the ecological health of four major rivers in Wales: the Teifi, Tywi, Cleddau and Usk. 

Blog

What is a minibeast? And other bug facts

Creepy crawlies are fascinating! But what is a minibeast? Where do they live? And what do they eat? Find out all about them with our minibeast facts.

Danielle Wesley  •  13 May 2019

Trees woods and wildlife

Lynx

These solitary, stealthy hunters are currently extinct in the UK, but some advocates of rewilding would like to see them return.

Blog

What do dragonflies eat? And other dragonfly facts

Discover incredible dragonfly facts including what they eat, how long they live, how fast they fly and how they’re different to damselflies.

Danielle Wesley  •  29 May 2019

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.

Blog

Ancient yew trees: the UK's oldest yews

Often associated with immortality, a yew tree can live for thousands of years. Here are some of the oldest yews in the UK.

Rory Morrow  •  27 Aug 2025

Trees woods and wildlife

Phytophthora lateralis

A fatal fungus-like species that attacks Lawson cypress, Phytophthora lateralis stops trees from transporting vital nutrients.

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.

Trees woods and wildlife

Otter

An elusive carnivore well-suited to land and water. With sweet-smelling spraint and a playful nature, otters are making a comeback. Find out what they eat, where they live and how to spot them.

Blog

Squirrel nests: where and how do they build them?

Find out what squirrel nests looks like, where you can spot them and how you can help our native red squirrel.

Charlie Mellor  •  15 Sept 2025

Video

How gifts in wills made a difference to Fiona and Derek

A third of all the work we do is made possible by gifts in wills. Fiona and Derek Gardiner, long-time supporters of the Woodland Trust, share why they chose to leave a gift in their will and how important their legacy is to them. 

00:03:00

Support us

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.

Press centre

Woodland Trust opens Mourne Park

A rare ancient woodland wildlife haven has opened in Northern Ireland for the first time in over 500 years, with three new trails to help visitors explore.

Blog

What do foxes eat? And more facts about foxes

Whether we live in the countryside or a bustling city, most of us have seen a fox. But how much do you know about one of our most iconic animals?

Charlotte Varela  •  16 Aug 2019

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

Press centre

Woodland Trust nears tree protection milestone as Living Legends petition gathers pace

A petition calling for stronger laws to protect important trees like the Sycamore Gap is tantalisingly close to its 100,000 target, says the UK’s largest woodland conservation charity.

Support us

Ancient woodland restoration appeal 

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

Trees woods and wildlife

Barnacle lichen

Looking like little barnacles growing on tree trunks, get to know barnacle lichen which you'll find on the bark of living trees in ancient wood.

Trees woods and wildlife

Common earthball

Warty, poisonous, explosive. Common earthball might look like a potato, but it is not for eating.

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.

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.

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

Trees woods and wildlife

Speckled wood

Understated yet headstrong, the speckled wood spends its time basking in sun-dappled woodland and fiercely patrolling its patch.

Trees woods and wildlife

Oyster mushroom

Carnivorous and oyster-like in appearance, these large, fleshy mushrooms are common throughout the UK's woodlands. They have a signature fan-shaped cap and are edible with a slight odour similar to aniseed.

Trees woods and wildlife

Honeysuckle

Twining, scented woodland stunner. This trumpet-like flower is a paradise for wildlife, with its sweet, heady fragrance calling to nearby species, particularly on warm summer evenings.

Support us

Life membership

Join today from £750.

Blog

What is hoar frost and how does it form?

Discover what hoar frost looks like, how it got its name and the conditions it needs to form.

Emilie Bonnevay  •  21 Feb 2019

Trees woods and wildlife

Soil

Soil is the basis of most habitats on earth. Each and every woodland is a representation of the soil it grows on, and each handful is bustling with life.

Blog

When do blue tits nest?

A sure sign of the start of spring is the sight of blue tits zipping back and forth to nest boxes, beaks full of moss. Find out when, where and how long blue tits nest, when their chicks fledge, and how important it is that they time things just right.

Amy Lewis  •  12 Feb 2019

Trees woods and wildlife

European larch

A spring-time show-off, European larch is a conifer full of surprises. Introduced over 400 years ago, it’s a favourite with squirrels, birds and moths alike.

Blog

Which trees have catkins? And how to tell them apart

Find out what catkins look like, which trees have them, why they grow, and where and when to spot them.

Alex Marshall  •  07 Jan 2025

Partnerships

E.ON Next

E.ON Next is donating a portion of its fixed tariffs to help us breathe new life into ancient woodlands.

Trees woods and wildlife

Wild service tree

A true springtime stunner, it’s not so long ago that you could find wild-service fruit at a market. These days it’s rare and hard to find but it’s still a favourite with wildlife like the wood pigeon, whose gut softens its seeds for propagation.

Press centre

The Woodland Trust Northern Ireland plants 250,000 trees at Woodburn Reservoir

The Woodland Trust has been working in partnership with Northern Ireland Water on a regreening programme since 2020. During that time, the UK’s leading woodland conservation charity has planted around 476,000 native trees on Northern Ireland Water’s land.

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

30 baby names inspired by trees and woods

Looking for a tree-themed baby name to inspire a love for nature? Discover our favourite tree names for girls and boys, plus gender-neutral options.

Danielle Wesley  •  09 Apr 2024

Trees woods and wildlife

Common pipistrelle bat 

Flying mammals that live among us. Common pipistrelles spend the day sleeping in buildings, but rely on trees when they emerge at night.

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

How to identify elderflower and what to do with it

Elderflowers are an all-time favourite forager's treat. Get our top identification tips, along with ideas and recipes on how to use the fragrant flowers.

Helen Keating  •  03 Jun 2021

Trees woods and wildlife

Leisler's bat

Tree-dwellers with a lion-like appearance, these fast-flying bats are scarce throughout Britain but common in Ireland.

Protecting trees and woods

How to set up a local group and meeting

A group of passionate, like-minded people could help others understand the value of woods and trees and shape local policy.

Blog

Ancient tree quiz: test your knowledge

How much do you know about old and ancient trees in the UK? How long do they live and where can you find them? Take the quiz.

Helen Keating  •  14 Jun 2022

Trees woods and wildlife

Oak bracket

Though it oozes a honey-like liquid, the oak bracket has a few less tantalising names. It lives off the heartwood of living trees as well as on deadwood. Also known as weeping conk and warted oak polypore, they belong to a group called butt rot fungi.

Trees woods and wildlife

Greater stitchwort

Pretty, star-like and abundant along hedgerows. These plants have an explosive seed-dispersal mechanism. Disturb a large patch of them in summer and they go off like fireworks.

Blog

Elephant hawk-moth: caterpillar, lifecycle and is it poisonous?

Elephant hawk-moths are big, bright and very, very beautiful. But what do elephant hawk-moth caterpillars look like, where does their name come from, and are they poisonous?

Charlotte Varela  •  08 Jul 2024

Support us

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.

Journal

Wood Wise – ancient woodland restoration

The summer 2015 issue of Wood Wise looks at the range of projects striving to bring light and life back to damaged native woods through careful restoration.

PDF  (1.99 MB)

Trees woods and wildlife

Scottish wildcat

Stealthy, rugged, not your average mog. The Scottish wildcat prowls select Scottish woods, spending its time hunting and protecting its territory. Known as the Highland tiger, this highly endangered species needs remote woodland to survive.

Support us

Joint life membership

Join today from £1,000.

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.  

Support us

Woodland creation appeal

Donate now to support our vital work, including the creation of life-giving new woodlands. With your help, we can build healthy habitats where precious wildlife can thrive.

Support us

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.

Blog

When do bluebells flower?

Mark your calendars! Find out when bluebells flower, plus more bluebell facts including where to see them, what they smell like and how they're protected.

Lorienne Whittle  •  21 Mar 2022

Trees woods and wildlife

Other invertebrates

Woodland supports thousands, probably millions, of insects and invertebrates that live among the leaves, under bark, in dead wood and on the woodland floor.

About us

We restore

We bring damaged ancient woods back to life, restoring irreplaceable ecosystems to improve landscape resilience so that nature and people can thrive.

Blog

Life cycle of a tree: how trees grow

From seed to snag, the journey a tree takes to grow is pretty impressive! Find out more about the process.

Rachel Hoskins  •  24 Jun 2019

Trees woods and wildlife

Walnut

Food of the gods, medicine for the people. Walnut was first introduced by the Romans who, like much of our native wildlife, valued its nuts.

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.

About us

Adfer afonydd Cymru

Mae prosiect Pedair Afon LIFE yn gynllun uchelgeisiol â’r nod o adfer iechyd ecolegol pedair o brif afonydd Cymru: Teifi, Tywi, Cleddau ac Wysg.

Video

Tree Charter in action - Wales

Find out how Coed Y Werin have been bringing the Tree Charter to life in Caerphilly, Wales after signing up as a Charter Branch.

00:02:05

Blog

Tree seed identification: seven common UK tree seeds

If someone showed you a seed from a common UK tree, could you tell which tree it was from? Find out more about seven common UK tree seeds.

Charlotte Varela  •  30 Sept 2023

Support us

Endangered wildlife appeal

Nature needs help. Please make a donation to support our life-changing work to plant trees, restore habitats and protect the UK's woodland. Together, we can give wildlife a future.

Trees woods and wildlife

Grasses and sedges

Grasses and sedges are in different botanical families, but because of their similar appearance they are collectively known as graminoids (plants with a grass-like appearance).

Trees woods and wildlife

Phytophthora ramorum

Phytophthora ramorum is a fungal-like organism that causes the death of a wide range of trees and shrubs. The greatest impact so far has been on larch plantations, leading to thousands of hectares of felling around the UK.

Visiting woods

Discover woods in summer

Lush green landscapes, glorious sunshine, rainbows of wildflowers – a visit to the woods in summer time is not to be missed. The days are long and the nights are short, so make the most of the woods in the daylight, smell the flowers, watch wildlife or even enjoy a picnic.

Blog

Broadleaf spring issue: a burst of new life

After a soggy start to spring, the world is at last alive with birdsong, bright yellow daffodils and the first flurry of puff-white blossom. Bring on the bluebells!

Elisabeth Crump  •  11 Mar 2024

Blog

Pine martens: where they live, what they eat and other facts

They may look cute and cuddly, but with fierce teeth and claws and an appetite for small mammals, the elusive pine marten is anything but! Learn more about this iconic woodland species and how we're helping to secure its future.

Charlie Mellor  •  14 Jun 2018

Trees woods and wildlife

Fish

With secretive habits and intriguing lifecycles, fish like salmon, trout and lamprey rely on woodland streams and rivers. These shady and fast-flowing watery habitats are a vital part of their survival.

Trees woods and wildlife

Ancient trees

Ancient trees are irreplaceable. Steeped in history, these impressive trees have been standing tall for hundreds of years and are invaluable homes for wildlife.

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.

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.

Trees woods and wildlife

Hazel dormouse

Sleepy, charming, undeniably cute. This minute mammal needs trees to survive and is seriously endangered.

Trees woods and wildlife

Hedgehog

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

Trees woods and wildlife

Urban trees and woodland

Underrated heroes, colourful comforts and spaces for people and wildlife. Urban trees and woodland are all the more valuable for their location. They support plants and animals, clean our air and boost wellbeing.

Trees woods and wildlife

Blackcap

Named after the male’s signature black cap, this little bird arrives in the UK each spring, bringing with it the sweet sound of its beautiful song.

Trees woods and wildlife

Kestrel

A hovering hunter that strikes from above. The kestrel is a common sight along woodland edges, using its razor-sharp vision to catch unsuspecting prey.

Trees woods and wildlife

Robin

Feisty. Iconic. A Christmas card favourite and a gardener’s best friend. It’s no wonder this fiery little fella is one of Britain’s most-loved birds, frequenting the UK’s gardens in search of worms.

Trees woods and wildlife

Rook

Raucous relative of the crow. After a day foraging in the fields, rooks head to the trees en masse; a noisy congregation settling down for a good night’s sleep among the branches.

Trees woods and wildlife

Grass snake

Stealthy slitherers. Grass snakes are lethal hunters of frogs, toads and other small creatures, but will rush for cover at the first sound of humans approaching.

Blog

Foraging in May: a guide to wild herbs and other edible plants

Find out which wild plants you can forage in May. Learn about edible plants with our quick identification guide and tips on how to find, eat and prepare them.

Helen Keating  •  08 May 2019

Trees woods and wildlife

Charcoal burner

Crumbly, tasty and ruddy, the charcoal burner is a favourite with chefs.

Visiting woods

Bluebell woods in Northern Ireland

Indulge in some quiet time and visit one of Northern Ireland's most stunning bluebell woods this spring.  

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.

Trees woods and wildlife

Beetles

There are 4,000 recorded species of beetle in Britain, and more than 1,000 live in trees and woodland habitats.

Trees woods and wildlife

Foxglove

Beautiful but deadly. This familiar flower has the power to cure and kill.

Trees woods and wildlife

Dog’s mercury

A poisonous coloniser of ancient woodland, dog’s mercury is quick to sweep over the wood floor, sometimes outcompeting more delicate ancient woodland species.

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

Chanterelle

Prized ingredient. Forager’s favourite. Succulent and delicate in flavour, chanterelle is used by chefs the world over.

Blog

Foraging in June: edible flowers, plants and herbs

From fresh flowers to tender leaves, here are some edible plants to forage in June. These are my top tips on where to find them, and how to turn them into something tasty.

Helen Keating  •  24 Jun 2021

Trees woods and wildlife

Birch, downy

Soft on the outside. Tough on the inside. On a global scale, this tree, with its fuzzy leaf stalks, shoots and twigs, grows further north than any other broadleaf species.

Trees woods and wildlife

Wood sorrel

These dainty sleeping beauties fold up their leaves and flowers at nightfall. Seek them out in cool, damp corners of ancient woodlands where they thrive in undisturbed soils.

Blog

Badgers: what do they eat? And other facts

Get advice on their feeding habits, from nuts to mealworms, and other top facts.

Helen Keating  •  27 Aug 2019

Trees woods and wildlife

Great spotted woodpecker

Not afraid to make itself heard. The great spotted woodpecker is equipped with a toolkit that makes it a true woodland specialist. Its strong beak and shock-absorbing skull are perfect for finding food and making its home among the trees.

Trees woods and wildlife

Collared earthstar

The star of the show in broadleaf woodland, this charming fungus would look at home at the bottom of the sea..

Trees woods and wildlife

Deathcap

Silent assassin and killer of kings. The deathcap has been used as a murder weapon for millennia.

Trees woods and wildlife

Pendulous sedge

Attractive, strong, damp-lover. Spot pendulous sedge swooning in damp woodland and river banks. It’s useful in a pinch, with edible seeds and strong leaves that can be made into rope and matting.

Visiting woods

Bluebell woods in England

Take some time away from the hustle and bustle and enjoy a tranquil springtime walk through one of England's most beautiful bluebell woods.

Trees woods and wildlife

Grey squirrel

Tree-climbing nut buriers. Scampering grey squirrels are a familiar sight, but sadly these American imports have had a disastrous impact on the native red squirrel.

Trees woods and wildlife

Common inkcap

Sticky and useful, inkcaps were used as a source of ink for important documents to guard against forgeries.

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

Cowslip

Simple yet lovely, cowslips are synonymous with spring and Easter. Find them in woods and meadows during springtime.

Trees woods and wildlife

Enchanter’s nightshade

Delicate, mystical, persistent. Find enchanter’s nightshade in woods and woodland edges, flowering in summer. Considered a weed in most gardens, this plant is just one part of the complex woodland habitat.

Blog

Hawk-moth caterpillar identification: eight UK species

Hawk-moth caterpillars have one thing in common: they're pretty impressive. Usually large, distinctively marked and with a characteristic horn at the tail end, they're a good group to get to grips with when learning who's who.

Amy Lewis  •  21 Jul 2021

Trees woods and wildlife

Scarlet elf cup

Mystical and cheery, the scarlet elf cup grows on decaying sticks and branches in damp spots and beneath leaf litter on the woodland floor. Their bright pops of colour brighten up even the darkest winter day.

Trees woods and wildlife

Red campion

These flashy woodland guardians have strong links to myths and mysticism. They are favourites of plenty of woodland insects – and fairies – and bloom a cheerful pink soon after the bluebell has finished flowering.

Blog

7 homemade gift ideas for Christmas

Take a look at our ideas for homemade Christmas gifts that are thoughtful, affordable and easy-to-make. 

Charlie Mellor  •  12 Oct 2023

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

Blog

When to prune apple and other fruit trees

Whether you're reviving an old fruit tree, shaping a new one, or encouraging a jumper crop, here's our top advice on what to do and when to do it. From apples and pears to peaches and plums.

Helen Keating  •  02 Feb 2018

Trees woods and wildlife

Moths

While they may not be seen as quite as attractive as butterflies, moths have a beauty all of their own. A whole host of moth species live in woodland, using their camouflage skills to blend in with tree bark, leaves and other woodland features. There are over 2,500 species of moth in the UK.

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

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

Blog

Where do bees go in winter?

Ever wondered where bees go in winter? Find out where different species of bee go when the weather gets cold, and when to spot them emerging.

Charlotte Varela  •  18 Nov 2022

Video

Explore the mysterious world of Britain's rainforests

Take a glimpse into Britain's beautiful and fragile temperate rainforests and discover more about the rare and globally important species that live there.

00:03:47

Blog

10 best winter woodland walks

Embrace the simpler things in life with a winter woodland walk, when spectacular frosty landscapes and leafless trees reveal hidden history and elusive wildlife. Check out 10 of our favourite woods for inspiration.

Charlie Mellor  •  16 Nov 2023

Video

Abi Reader, dairy farmer in Vale of Glamorgan

Abi explains the farm's experimental short rotation coppice system with a high protein arable crop between rows of native trees. The aim is to meet a universal goal: food production and a sustainable planet.

00:03:06

Trees woods and wildlife

Whitebeam, rock

Rugged yet charming, rock whitebeam clings to areas of rocky woodland and fissures in limestone cliffs. A parent species of the rarer Arran whitebeam, the rock whitebeam is becoming increasingly hard to find.

Trees woods and wildlife

Common wasp

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

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. 

00:02:59

Trees woods and wildlife

Wasp beetle

A sheep in wolf’s clothing, the wasp beetle gets by looking much more threatening than it is. Its larvae feed on dry deadwood while adults collect pollen from flowers.

Blog

True or false? British rainforest facts quiz

Do you know how Britain's rainforest measures up against its tropical cousins? How about the plants, animals and climate? Test your knowledge and learn about these amazing places with our rainforest facts quiz.

Charlie Mellor  •  18 Jun 2025

Trees woods and wildlife

Muntjac deer

Small and secretive. Muntjac are an attractive, but potentially damaging, addition to our woodlands, having been introduced in the 20th century.

Trees woods and wildlife

Land caddisfly

These clever case-builders break all the rules. They're the only species out of 200 UK caddisflies to spend their lives entirely on land.

Trees woods and wildlife

Treecreeper

These tiny birds live and breathe trees. Spot treecreepers scuttling up branches looking for a tasty morsel to bring to their nests.

Trees woods and wildlife

Hornet

The king of the wasps with a fearsome reputation, the hornet is actually much less aggressive than its smaller cousin, the common wasp.

Support us

Ausewell Wood appeal, Dartmoor

With its dramatic rocky outcrops, raw and rugged beauty, and precious, endangered wildlife, Ausewell Wood is the lost world that needs your help.

Plant trees

Types of woodland management

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

Blog

What are the most common trees in the UK?

Ever wondered which trees species are most common in the UK? Check out our top ten.

Laura Cottam  •  21 Dec 2018

Trees woods and wildlife

Serotine bat 

One of the largest British bats, the serotine has a taste for beetles and other flying insects. Listen for the squeaking sound it makes just before emerging at dusk to hunt.

Trees woods and wildlife

Rhinoceros beetle

Big and bold deadwood lovers. These impressive insects need trees to feed and breed.

Trees woods and wildlife

Arkaig ospreys: behind the scenes of a nest camera in the Scottish Highlands

No wi-fi, no plug sockets, no film crew. Meet the people behind the camera and explore the set of the UK's most remote family drama.

Trees woods and wildlife

Why bats need woods and trees

The UK is home to 18 species of bats, all of which are protected by law. This protection extends to their breeding and resting places. Hedgerows, tree lines and watercourses are important to the roosting, foraging and navigation needs of bats.   

Support us

Loch Arkaig Pine Forest appeal, Scottish Highlands

Old and gnarled Scots pines. Celebrated ospreys. Breathtaking loch-side views. Thanks to your generous support, some of Scotland’s finest and most fragile treasures now have the chance to thrive.

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.

Trees woods and wildlife

Alder

Swamp-dweller, water-lover. The wood of this tough tree doesn’t rot when waterlogged, instead turning stronger and harder.

Trees woods and wildlife

Pine marten

Shy, curious and playful. The pine marten is a stealthy, acrobatic hunter that relies on the cover of woods and trees for its foraging missions. It’s critically endangered in England and Wales as much of its woodland habitat has been lost.

Trees woods and wildlife

Red deer

The majestic monarch of the glen. Our largest land mammal, red deer, are the royalty of UK woodland. 

Trees woods and wildlife

Poplar hawk-moth

Big, bold and full of character. An encounter with a hawk-moth is always special, and this species is the one most likely to make your acquaintance.

Blog

How to whittle for kids and beginners

Follow our easy whittling instructions for children and beginners with guidance, safety tips and project ideas.

Rachel Hoskins  •  02 May 2019

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

Willow, crack

Scruffy and loud, the crack willow is named after its habit of splitting with cracks and fissures, and how noisy its branches are when they break. It’s one of the largest willows and its leaves are popular with moth caterpillars.

Trees woods and wildlife

Greater horseshoe bat

Rare and highly agile. Look out for the greater horseshoe bat along woodland edges at dawn and dusk. The longest-lived bat in the UK, it has become scarce due to a loss of insect prey and habitat.

Trees woods and wildlife

Wheatear

These migratory birds are seasoned travellers, embarking on an epic journey from Africa to the UK each spring. They favour upland habitats and nest in cavities between rocks.

Trees woods and wildlife

Soprano pipistrelle bat

The soprano pipistrelle bat is a widespread species that hunts close to water and can be found in woods and gardens.

Trees woods and wildlife

Starling

Social songsters with shiny feathers and common garden visitors. These gregarious birds are probably most famed for their stunning murmuration displays.

Trees woods and wildlife

Horse chestnut

Spiky cases, gleaming seeds, celebrated by children. Horse chestnuts, with their mahogany-bright conkers, are the very essence of autumn.

Trees woods and wildlife

Bullfinch

Shy but striking. Bullfinches bring a brilliant burst of colour to the UK’s woods. The species depends on trees for much of its food, feeding on seeds and buds.

Trees woods and wildlife

Cherry, bird

A stunning, scented show-stopper of a tree. In spring, nectar-loving animals flock to this beautiful tree for its almond-scented blossom.

Trees woods and wildlife

Wild boar

Big, bulky and back. Wild boar have made a controversial return to the UK’s woods after centuries away.

Trees woods and wildlife

Elm, English

Once growing to lofty heights, the elegant English elm used to dominate the landscape. Now this ancient symbol of melancholy and death is a rare sight, having been decimated by Dutch elm disease.

Blog

What’s the difference between nuts and seeds?

When it comes to nuts and seeds, it’s easy to get confused by name, size and other factors. Here’s our guide to work out which is which, along with some handy examples.

Charlie Mellor  •  29 Aug 2019

Trees woods and wildlife

Hornbeam

Gnarled and mighty, the hornbeam is as tough as they come. It’s beautiful, useful, and its year-round leaf cover makes it a winter haven for wildlife.

Trees woods and wildlife

Hawthorn

Named after the month in which it blooms and a sign that spring is turning to summer. The pale green leaves of this hedgerow staple are often the first to appear in spring, with an explosion of pretty pale-pink blossom in May. It simply teems with wildlife from bugs to birds.

Trees woods and wildlife

Spruce, Sitka

Imposing, aged, useful. The Sitka spruce accounts for around half of commercial plantations, and though it’s not as valuable as our native trees, it shelters birds and small mammals.

Trees woods and wildlife

Lungwort lichens

Once common and widespread, they're now pushed to the westernmost extremities of the UK due to air pollution.

Trees woods and wildlife

Pill woodlouse

Easily found and easily startled, the pill woodlouse is named after its habit of rolling tight into a ball when disturbed. They’re a common sight in woodland, parks and gardens alike.

Trees woods and wildlife

Meadow foxtail

Upright and bushy-tailed, meadow foxtail is a charming addition to any meadow. It provides food and habitats for a variety of invertebrates, including the caterpillars of the Essex skipper butterfly.

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

Oak, holm

With its evergreen leaves, the holm oak is a bold splash of colour in the winter months. It was first introduced in the 1500s and, though it’s not as adapted as our native oaks, it supports plenty of our wildlife.

Trees woods and wildlife

Common rough woodlouse

Hardy, hungry, excellent composters. The humble woodlouse munches its way through just about anything it can find and is an expert in recycling nutrients.

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.

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.

Trees woods and wildlife

Brown roll-rim

The brown roll-rim might look innocent enough, but it’s a deadly fungus of birch woodland.

Trees woods and wildlife

Yew, Irish

A mutant favourite with wildlife, the Irish yew is thought to have developed from the common yew. All Irish yews descended from cuttings of one tree found in County Fermanagh in the 1700s. Nowadays, it provides food and shelter for native animals.

Trees woods and wildlife

Swift

Super-fast flyers living almost their entire life on the wing. Swifts are summer visitors to the UK whose numbers have suffered a worrying decline.

Blog

UK hawk-moth identification and facts

Hawk-moths are some of the largest and most recognisable moths in the UK. Learn to tell which is which with our visual guide to 10 of the most commonly encountered UK species.

Amy Lewis  •  21 Jun 2021

Trees woods and wildlife

Whitebeam, Arran

Rare, rugged, isolated. Arran whitebeam is one of the rarest and most endangered trees in the world. It is a hybrid of rowan and rock whitebeam which has stayed on the Isle of Arran since the last glaciers were formed.

Trees woods and wildlife

Elm, Huntingdon

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

Trees woods and wildlife

Wayfaring tree

A welcome sign you’re homeward bound, the wayfaring tree is so named because it grows close to paths. Look for them in hedges and woodland edges, with full bloom in the spring and heavy with berries in the autumn.

Blog

When do birds nest?

Some birds nest earlier than others. Find out all about the time of year birds nest and which are the earliest nesters.

Hannah Vickers  •  17 Jan 2019

Press centre

Bugs on planes: volunteers hunt for new insect threat to iconic trees

Hardy volunteers are scouring trees across the UK in search of a hitchhiking bug that has made its way to our shores.

Trees woods and wildlife

Meadowsweet

Sweet by name, sweet by nature. Meadowsweet might not be to everyone’s taste, but you’re unlikely to mistake the sickly sweet and frothy flower in damp woodland and bubbling out of damp ditches.

Blog

What is habitat fragmentation and what does it mean for our wildlife?

Did you know that habitat fragmentation is one of the greatest threats to wildlife globally? Find out what it means and how it affects UK species like the dormouse.

James Martin  •  16 Aug 2018

Blog

What is lichen? Seven types of lichen found on trees

Lichen can be very visible on branches and bark at this time of year. They can be really difficult to identify, but here are seven common lichens that grow on trees.

Kylie Harrison Mellor  •  24 Apr 2019

Trees woods and wildlife

Bearded tooth fungus

Tufty and beard-like, this rare and legally protected fungus has a reputation for easing dementia.

Trees woods and wildlife

Common bird’s nest fungus

Clinging to twigs and branches like tiny birds’ nests, each common bird’s nest fungus looks like a clutch of white eggs. 

Trees woods and wildlife

Dogwood

Understated until the colder months when it bursts into colour, dogwood is a broadleaf shrub which thrives in damp woodland edges. Legend has it that the timber is so hard, it was used for crucifixes.

Trees woods and wildlife

Purple hairstreak

Small yet stunning, the purple hairstreak is rarely seen as it spends much of its time fluttering high up in the tree canopy. Reliant on oak woodland, this little butterfly is never far from oak trees.

Blog

What is the difference between butterflies and moths?

When the two look so similar, is there actually a difference between a butterfly and a moth? Find out how to separate the two and discover the truth behind some common myths about moths.

Charlotte Varela  •  21 Jul 2023

Trees woods and wildlife

Hemlock, western

Dense and graceful, the western hemlock is a handsome tree with drooping branches of soft needles. Introduced in the 1800s, the tree casts such heavy shade that not much can live beneath it.

Trees woods and wildlife

Poplar leaf beetle

A bright-coloured, picky eater. The poplar leaf beetle spends its time munching on the leaves of willows and, you guessed it, poplars.

Blog

Broadleaf spring issue: a fresh new dawn

Spring has sprung and the world is waking up. In this issue of Broadleaf, we celebrate the new season, explore natural regeneration, and hear from Pam Ayres and Liz Bonnin.

Elisabeth Crump  •  11 Mar 2025

Trees woods and wildlife

Hawfinch

This big-billed heavyweight can easily crush a cherry stone, but the UK’s largest finch is shy and hard to spot, spending most of its time in the canopy.

Trees woods and wildlife

Atlantic salmon

A fish with a harsh life and epic journey. They’ve long been a favoured seafood, but over-fishing and pollution have seriously impacted populations.

Blog

Hollow tree trunks: what are they good for?

Take a step inside a hollow tree and you take a step back through history. A hollowing trunk is a natural process and has benefits for the tree and the creatures that live in them.

Sally Bavin  •  28 Jul 2023

Blog

Foraging in April: edible wild plants to harvest

April is the time to look out for fresh new greens and herbs to give your food a seasonal springtime boost. Here are seven easy-to-identify edible herbs and plants to look out for.

Helen Keating  •  27 Apr 2023

Trees woods and wildlife

Orchards

Buzzing with life and fruitful harvests. Orchards are both useful for food, but also for a huge range of wildlife. Though many have been lost, there is hope for the orchard!

Trees woods and wildlife

Mistletoe

Romantic, parasitic and poisonous, mistletoe loves broadleaf trees and provides an important habitat for woodland wildlife. Its leathery green leaves offer welcome colour among bare winter branches when much else is dormant.

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. 

00:02:12

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

Blog

11 must-know facts about woods and forests in the UK

Woods and forests are mysterious, beautiful and fascinating places. Here are 11 amazing must-know facts about our woods and forests in the UK.

Chris Britt-Searle  •  02 May 2024

Trees woods and wildlife

Plane, London

A real city slicker, the London plane is the capital’s most common tree. As a hybrid of American sycamore and Oriental plane, it was first discovered in the 17th century then widely planted in the 18th.

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.

Trees woods and wildlife

Rose chafer

With striking, iridescent bodies that shimmer like oil slicks in the sunshine, rose chafers are easy to spot as they crawl among the flowers on summer days.

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

Blog

Top 10 woods to enjoy autumn colour

Take a look at our top 10 woods to visit for autumn colour, with sites in England, Wales, Scotland and Northern Ireland. 

Hannah Vickers  •  10 Nov 2021

Plant trees

In-field trees

Low maintenance and versatile, in-field trees can be integrated into existing farming systems to enhance the farmed business and biodiversity.

Blog

Where does mistletoe grow?

Mistletoe is a familiar Christmas staple, associated with folklore and midwinter tradition. But where does it grow and how can you find it in the wild?

Hanako Shimada  •  23 Dec 2024

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.

Trees woods and wildlife

Willow, goat

Also known as the pussy willow, the male catkins of the goat willow look like a cat’s paws. It supports lots of wildlife, including the elusive and regal purple emperor butterfly.

Event

Woodland walkabout at Londonthorpe Woods

Join us for a winter walkabout at Londonthorpe Woods to explore the beautiful scenery of the woodland and surrounding area.

Thu 05 Feb 2026  •  Londonthorpe Woods, Grantham

Event

Woodland walkabout at Londonthorpe Woods

Join us for a winter walkabout at Londonthorpe Woods to explore the beautiful scenery of the woodland and surrounding area.

Fri 02 Jan 2026  •  Londonthorpe Woods, Grantham

Blog

Shieldbug identification: 10 common UK shieldbugs

There are a number of shieldbug species in the UK, characterised by their flat, often triangular bodies and distinctive, shield-like shapes on their backs. Learn to tell which is which with our quick and easy guide to some of Britain's most familiar types.

Amy Lewis  •  14 May 2021

Trees woods and wildlife

How to identify trees

All trees have clues and features that can help with identification. You just need to know what to look out for with our quick guide.

Blog

Rare UK animals quiz: how well do you know our endangered wildlife?

We all love wildlife, but did you know we live in one of the most nature-depleted countries on Earth? Take our quiz to see if you recognise rare and endangered species, plus find out what we’re doing to change things and how you can help make a difference.

Charlie Mellor  •  07 May 2025

Plant trees

Silvopasture alleys

Silvopasture alleys are a versatile agroforestry system that can benefit livestock, crops and the land itself.

Trees woods and wildlife

Yellow brain

A frilly sign of a witch’s curse, yellow brain is a parasitic jelly fungus that looks a little like a brain and feeds on fungi that feed on dead wood.

Support us

Explore different viewpoints

What would a tree look like from a bird’s eye view? Or a bug’s eye view? This activity involves visiting a wood or other natural space and challenging your students to explore it from more than one point of view.

Trees woods and wildlife

Phytophthora austrocedri

Phytophthora austrocedri is a pathogen that infects and kills native juniper trees. Junipers are one of our rarest native trees and an attack from this fungi-like species is a devastating blow to some of the UK’s populations.

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.

Visiting woods

Frodsham Woods

On an abandoned golf course, we are creating a vibrant green haven for wildlife and people.

Visiting woods

Heather Wood

This ancient woodland site is home to a valuable mosaic of habitats.

Trees woods and wildlife

Wet woodland

Wild, transient, boggy and rare. Wet woodlands are now some of our least common wooded habitats. Trees like alder, willows and birch dominate on wet soils, whilst sedges, ferns and mosses flourish beneath.

About us

The Bunce survey

The Bunce survey brings together 50 years of data drawn from more than 100 woods across England, Scotland and Wales. What has changed in that time? Why? And how can we use the results to nurture healthier woodlands?

Visiting woods

Mourne Park

Thanks to your generous support, Mourne Park’s gates are open to all. Experience the wonder of Northern Ireland’s ancient woodlands, with scenic views, trails and rich wildlife waiting to be discovered. We invite you to be part of its story.

Visiting woods

Gillian's Wood

We are restoring this ancient woodland site to its former glory. 

Video

Meet the people behind our work: Cumbrian landscape

We have a vision to create new woodland where it's needed most. Pete Leeson is our man on the ground in the uplands of Cumbria, working with landowners to plant trees to benefit farms, local people and wildlife.

00:02:00

Practical guidance

Integrating trees on farms and crofts in Scotland

It's time to manage land in a way that addresses ambitious targets to reduce greenhouse gas emissions. Agroforestry and woodland expansion projects in Scotland are key for integrating tree cover and agricultural land to complement farming systems, including crofting. 

PDF  (1.38 MB)

Press centre

Giant boost for nature in Yorkshire Dales as charity plans huge native woodland

One of the boldest projects in the English uplands is about to start with the first trees to go in the ground at Snaizeholme in the Yorkshire Dales.

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.

Video

Autumn message to Woodland Trust members

A message from our chief executive

00:02:42

Video

Hedge maze offers social and therapeutic horticulture

Silver Birch Scotland has planted an incredible maze which helps support clients in East Dunbartonshire to gain skills, confidence and health benefits through horticulture.

00:02:39

Support us

Heartwood Forest appeal, St Albans

Our supporters helped us create the largest new native forest in England. Just a stone's throw from London, Heartwood Forest offers a place to escape without travelling far from the city.

Video

Encourage interaction and a sense of community

Maybush Copse Friends group has completely transformed a landscape to create a green space for the local community to enjoy.

00:03:57

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

Video

Vital shelter for island football pitch

Free trees are providing valuable protection from the elements for a local football club on the Isle of Lewis.

00:02:37

Video

Protect our Living Legends: A Legacy Beyond the Sycamore Gap

The heartbreaking felling of the Sycamore Gap tree one year ago is a reminder of the irreplaceable value and vulnerability of our ancient trees. Sign the petition to call for the legal protection they deserve.

00:05:14

Video

Create shade and shelter for livestock and crops

Cumbria farmers Paul and Nic Renison reduced lamb loss rates and improved soil health and farm productivity with new trees and hedges.

00:02:18

Video

Faughan Valley: Creating a resilient woodland

Find out how the Woodland Trust Northern Ireland woodland creation team is working with landowners to create new woods in the Faughan Valley.

00:05:43

Video

Meet the people behind our work: Fingle Woods

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

00:02:17

Video

Timber production during restoration in a County Antrim woodland

Continuing a 150 year history of woodland management the Shanes Castle estate is managing its woods for timber production whilst restoring the ancient woodland. 

00:05:20

Video

Plant more trees. Protect us all.

Find out about our mission to plant millions of trees for a greener, healthier world. 

00:00:29

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.

00:03:37

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.

00:01:25

Video

Phillipa Batchelor - volunteer administrator

Find out more about Phillipa's volunteering role and why she was nominated for an award.

00:02:05

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.

Video

Suzie Harvey - volunteer Tree Charter social media champion

Find out more about Suzie's volunteering and why she was nominated for an award.

00:02:39

Video

The global movement for tree equity

Learn how, alongside American Forests and the Centre for Sustainable Healthcare, we brought Tree Equity Score UK to towns and cities across England, Scotland, Wales and Northern Ireland.

00:05:18

Video

Trialling plastic-free guards with Kate Humble

We're helping TV presenter Kate Humble transform a section of her farm into a vibrant woodland. To protect the hundreds of newly planted trees from deer browsing, see how Kate's exploring sustainable solutions with eco-friendly, plastic-free tree guards.

00:02:20

Case study

Ancient woodland restoration for dormice

Find out how the rare hazel dormouse is benefiting from our groundbreaking restoration techniques in ancient Fingle Woods in Devon.

PDF  (1.51 MB)

Video

Geraint Davies, upland sheep and beef farmer

Find out why Geraint has planted new hedgerows, more streamside trees, and increased tree cover on his Ffridd.

00:04:00

Video

A legacy for future generations

The Ukrainian Youth Association in Great Britain planted 420 free trees in Derbyshire to have a lasting impact for its community.

00:02:45

Video

Tree planting for climate and biodiversity

Klare Owen is a self-proclaimed hobby farmer near Aberystwyth. In a bid to boost biodiversity, combat climate change and visually transform the landscape, she planted 2,250 trees through MOREwoods and MOREhedges.

00:01:17

Press centre

New study reveals the UK’s rarest rainforest beetles are multi-day adventurers

A new study delving into the lives of one of the UK’s rarest beetles shows them to be athletes and adventurers – travelling the scaled–up equivalent of several kilometres a night in search of food and mates.

Video

Highlights from an ancient woodland restoration event

See highlights from a restoration demonstration event in Wales, including timber processing, working with contractors, a lichenologist and paleoecology - analysing soil to discover the wood's history.

00:06:35

Press centre

Dalkeith named heritage tree hotspot as experts record 500 “living legends”

Dalkeith Country Park in Midlothian has been revealed as a heritage tree hotspot after experts recorded 500 ancient, veteran and notable oaks over the last year.

Video

The state of Wales’ rainforests

Discover the beauty of our rainforests and why the Alliance for Wales’ Rainforests is asking the Welsh government to do more to protect them.

00:02:05

Press centre

Children's author Michael Morpurgo backs project bringing city children into nature and farming

The Woodland Trust is working with Farms for City Children, a charity founded by Michael and Clare Morpurgo to connect city children with nature and farming.

Video

Protecting and restoring temperate rainforest in Devon

See how we're working with organisations including Plantlife and the National Trust to protect and restore temperate rainforest sites across Devon.

00:06:32

Press centre

Woodland Trust announces Tony Hall – Lord Hall of Birkenhead as new chair

The Woodland Trust is delighted to announce the appointment of Tony Hall – Lord Hall of Birkenhead as the charity’s new chair. He will take up the role in June 2024.

Video

Hedging shelters outdoor gym

Community interest company Inspire2tri planted 60 free trees to provide useful shelter for a disability and older adult activity area in Rutland.

00:02:27

Video

Growing partnerships for impact

partnership video page

00:11:33

Video

Woodland Carbon Scheme: how it works

Woodland Carbon is our unique tree planting scheme that combines environmental benefits with financial rewards for farmers and landowners. Find out how it works.

00:03:27

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

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

Nature, art and youth vision unite with new mural at Brynau Farm

A once unremarkable concrete wall has been transformed into a stunning work of art thanks to a collaboration between Coed Cadw (the Woodland Trust in Wales) and Swansea College of Art.