West Wood in Hadleigh, Essex (not Suffolk!), is a hidden gem steeped in history. As you step into this ancient woodland, you're transported back in time. The forest has stood here for centuries, its boundary largely unchanged, possibly dating back to the medieval period or earlier. For at least two hundred years the wood belonged to the Dean of St Paul's Cathedral and was managed as a coppice woodland.
The walk begins under a canopy of majestic oak trees, their gnarled branches reaching out like protective arms. These oaks, some hundreds of years old, have witnessed countless generations pass beneath them. Interspersed among the oaks are beech, hornbeam, and sweet chestnut trees, each adding to the rich tapestry of the woodland.
As you venture deeper, the path meanders through a sea of bluebells in spring, their delicate blue hues carpeting the forest floor. The air is filled with the sweet scent of wild garlic, its white star-like flowers dotting the understory.
In autumn, the wood transforms into a wonderland of golden and russet hues as the leaves change colour. Fungi sprout from fallen logs, adding splashes of vibrant colours to the woodland palette, and the bushy squirrel tails dance and flick around the wrinkled bark.
I have always felt incredibly fortunate to live near this ancient woodland. West Wood offers a sanctuary from the hustle and bustle of modern life, a place where you can connect with nature and the history of Britain – and it is right on our doorsteps. It's a living museum, a haven for wildlife, and a seemingly inexhaustible source of natural beauty throughout the seasons.
Just before writing this piece, I took my big black pollen-ball of a dog around the wood and, heading home, every sense was invigorated by the woodland experience. A cup of tea was the perfect end to the wild walk. Then, feeling pleasantly tired from the forest adventure, I retreated to the shed for a cozy nap with my faithful canine companion, the peaceful sounds of nature still echoing in my mind.
