Attractions and Places To See around Savernake Forest - Top 6

Savernake Forest is an ancient woodland, designated as a Site of Special Scientific Interest (SSSI) due to its exceptional biodiversity. You'll discover a mix of broad-leaved trees, diverse habitats, and rare species of lichens, fungi, and mosses, particularly on its older trees. The forest also features areas like Red Vein Bottom, where White Park cattle graze to maintain open glades.

Yes, Savernake Forest is renowned for its ancient oak trees, many of which are individually named. Don't miss the Big Belly Oak, estimated to be around 1,100 years old and known as the great grandfather of the historic Savernake oaks. Another ancient oak is the Old Paunchy Oak, also likely over 1,000 years old. Other notable trees include the Queen Oak, Saddle Oak, and King of Limbs.

The forest holds significant history. You can visit the Ailesbury Column, a 90-foot stone column erected in 1781. Savernake was also a royal hunting forest for over a thousand years and contains prehistoric sites like burial mounds and earthworks, with a Roman road running through it. During World War II, parts of the forest served as a munitions depot.

Savernake Forest and its surroundings offer excellent opportunities for walking, cycling, and gravel biking. You can explore numerous trails and routes suitable for various skill levels. For detailed routes, check out guides like Gravel biking around Savernake Forest, Road Cycling Routes around Savernake Forest, and Cycling around Savernake Forest.

Absolutely. The most prominent feature is The Grand Avenue, an impressive tree-lined avenue stretching nearly 4 miles straight through the forest. Another key point for navigating the woodland trails is Eight Walks, a central hub connecting the Grand Avenue with seven other forest rides. You can also find many narrower walkways that lead to quieter and more interesting parts of the forest.

Yes, Savernake Forest is very family-friendly. Many of its highlights, including the forest itself, the Old Paunchy Oak, the Postern Hill viewpoint, and the Big Belly Oak, are categorized as family-friendly. Children will enjoy exploring the ancient trees, spotting wildlife, and walking the various trails. Postern Hill also offers a public car park and barbecue area, perfect for a family day out.

Savernake Forest offers beauty throughout the year. Spring brings new growth and wildflowers, while summer provides lush green canopies. Autumn is particularly stunning with vibrant foliage, making it a popular time for walks. The ancient trees and unique natural features can be appreciated in any season, each offering a different experience.

Yes, Postern Hill is located at the highest point of the chalk plateau (193 meters or 633 feet) and offers excellent views overlooking Marlborough and the surrounding woodland. The Ailesbury Column also provides an impressive vista from its location at the end of a long ride.

The forest is home to abundant wildlife, including deer, which are often visible in its open glades. Keep an eye out for squirrels and a variety of bird species. The forest's designation as an SSSI also highlights its importance for rare lichens, fungi, and mosses, particularly on its ancient trees.

Yes, Savernake Forest is generally dog-friendly, offering many trails for walks. While dogs are welcome, it's always recommended to keep them under control, especially given the presence of wildlife like deer and grazing cattle in areas like Red Vein Bottom. Please ensure you follow any posted guidelines regarding dog walking.

Public parking is available at Postern Hill, which also serves as a convenient access point to the forest's walking trails and offers barbecue facilities. There are other informal parking spots along the forest's edges, but Postern Hill is a well-known and equipped option.

Savernake Forest is unique as the only privately owned forest in Britain. It has been passed down through an unbroken line of hereditary 'forest wardens' for 31 generations. Despite being privately owned, it is managed by Forestry England and remains open to the public, allowing visitors to enjoy its natural beauty and historical significance.