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.
Be part of Heartwood's future
Heartwood came into our care in 2008. Since then, and with the help of volunteers, local people and supporters from around the UK, we've planted more than half a million trees here.
But it's an evolving landscape, and one that still needs your support.
Trees for people
We aimed big, and in 2019 completed the planting of 600,000 trees thanks to a huge community effort. We've created a free, natural space for everyone to enjoy. The young forest offers an escape from city life. And it gives all the chance to reconnect with nature.
Heartwood Forest is the largest new native forest in England - planted by people, for people.
Trees for wildlife
By planting trees here, we're transforming a site with little wildlife value into beautiful broadleaved woodland. It connects Heartwood's remnants of ancient and established woodland with the wider countryside and provides a protected home for a wealth of important wildlife.
You can help us achieve this vision
It takes around £200,000 a year to maintain Heartwood Forest. That may sound a lot, but it means this amazing place will remain free and welcoming to everyone and provide a protected home for wildlife.
Whatever you choose to give, donating online is secure, quick and cost effective, so more money goes directly towards supporting our work at Heartwood.
Visit for yourself
Woodland Walks with Adam Shaw – our new podcast!
Adam Shaw • 28 May 2019
Adam Shaw hosts the new Woodland Trust podcast – Woodland Walks. Our debut episode explores the largest new native woodland in England, Heartwood Forest.