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Trees woods and wildlife
Blackthorn
Early to blossom, blackthorn trees have clouds of snow-white flowers in early spring. They’re best known for their rich, inky, dark fruits used to make a favourite wintry tipple – sloe gin.
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Blog
Hawthorn and blackthorn: what’s the difference?
Hawthorn and blackthorn are two of the most easily confused species, so here’s a closer look at their differences to help you tell them apart.
Charlie Mellor • 09 Apr 2019
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Visiting woods
Spring's vital signs report 2025
Find out about how frogspawn, blackthorn and song thrush are affected by a changing climate.
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Visiting woods
Spring's Vital Signs
Have you spotted frogspawn, seen blackthorn bloom or heard a song thrush singing? Let us know so we can check the health of the planet.
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Privately owned Wood
Stockshill & Blackthorn Woods
Kent
23.97 ha (59.23 acres)
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Privately owned Wood
Rolls And Blackthorn Woods
Hertfordshire
13.33 ha (32.94 acres)
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Press centre
Spot spring’s vital signs and help the Woodland Trust record the impact of climate change on nature
The Woodland Trust is urging people to get outside and spot vital signs of spring to help monitor potentially “disastrous” effects of climate change on nature, before its campaign ends on Easter Monday.
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Blog
British trees: folklore and mythology
Trees are deeply embedded in our history and folklore. Explore nine British trees with their own magical associations and stories.
Helen Keating • 29 Apr 2021
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Blog
When to pick sloes and how to make sloe gin
Sloe gin is a traditional tipple at Christmas and throughout winter. If you've been wondering how to make sloe gin, our easy recipe will help you whip up a batch of this sweet and warming liqueur.
Charlotte Varela • 24 Oct 2025
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Blog
Combat climate change at home: 6 UK native trees to plant in small gardens
Small garden, big impact – here’s a list of UK native trees to help combat global warming from home, without taking up too much space.
Becca Smith • 07 Oct 2022