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Heart of England Forest adventures

Heart of England Forest Adventures

Heart of England Forest is a large-scale native woodland restoration project in the English Midlands offering rich opportunities for walking, wildlife observation, and experiencing rejuvenated ancient forest habitats.

8,000+
Acres Protected
20+
Miles of Trails
50,000+
Annual Visitors
2003
Year Established

About Heart of England Forest

 

The Heart of England Forest is an ambitious environmental project founded in 2003, dedicated to restoring and expanding native woodland habitats across central England. Spread across parts of Warwickshire, Worcestershire, and Gloucestershire, this forest initiative focuses on reversing centuries of woodland loss by planting and nurturing native trees such as oak, hazel, and wild cherry. The forest covers a mosaic of habitats, including ancient semi-natural woodlands, newly planted native tree areas, meadows, and wetlands. This diversity supports a wide range of wildlife, including birds like nightingales and woodpeckers, mammals such as badgers and deer, and rare insects. Visitors to the Heart of England Forest can enjoy numerous walking and cycling trails that wind through peaceful glades and vibrant woodlands. Several historic landmarks and remnants of traditional woodland management can also be explored, including old coppices and charcoal platforms. The forest has become an important educational resource, offering opportunities for families, schools, and community groups to connect with nature through guided walks and volunteer projects. Its peaceful setting and rich biodiversity attract outdoor enthusiasts year-round. The forest’s long-term vision aims not only to create one of England’s largest native woodlands but also to improve landscape connectivity, enhance carbon sequestration, and protect local ecosystems. While it is not a formal national park or state-owned land, the Heart of England Forest represents one of the region's most significant conservation efforts and a growing natural attraction for visitors interested in sustainable outdoor recreation and forest renewal.

Highlights

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Extensive native broadleaf woodland restoration with thousands of newly planted trees

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Diverse wildlife habitat supporting rare bird species such as nightingales and woodpeckers

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Accessible network of walking and cycling trails through varied forest and meadow environments

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Educational programs and volunteer opportunities for community engagement in conservation

Notable Natural Features

Restored Native Woodland

Thousands of acres of native broadleaf trees planted to recreate authentic English woodland ecosystems.

Wildlife Habitats

Supports a rich variety of species including rare birds, mammals, and insects due to diverse habitats.

Multi-Use Trail Network

Accessible trails for walking and cycling that explore different woodland and meadow areas.