Stowell Wood, Chard, Somerset

A unique mix of broadleaves, pine, fragrant eucalyptus and rhododendron flowers alongside a meandering stream.

The fragrant young gum trees mixed with the vibrant foliage and flowers of the rhododendron and hemlock give this woodland a wonderfully wild and exotic feel. It is easy to feel transported to the tropics whilst sitting next to the babbling stream, listening to the melodic chorus of the song thrush on a summer’s day.

There are a series of meandering streams through Stowell Wood, which form a couple of wildlife ponds - providing key habitat for wildlife such as Bechstein’s bats, spotted flycatchers and roe deer. The streams are believed to flow from freshwater streams at the north-eastern boundary, bubbling up through the gravel. Other woodland creatures known to inhabit the woodland include badgers and woodpeckers.

The mixed canopy is composed of beech, sycamore maple, oak, birch and western hemlock, with young eucalyptus - a species prized for its resilience to climate change and vigorous growth - and there are obligations to maintain the cover of the newly planted trees until 2031. Rhododendron and some hazel form the shrub layer where you will also find wild blackberries and raspberries.

This mostly flat woodland is accessed off the adjacent lane via a hard track, with a small turning area, suitable for year-round use by any vehicle. From here the main body of the woodland is accessed via cleared footpaths which could be easily widened to provide 4WD or ATV access.

Our Forester's Thoughts

Harry says...

"I would continue to clear some of the rhododendron, creating wider glades and rides within the wood. After clearing these areas, I would carry out some planting to diversify the species composition of this woodland further - wild service, hornbeam, hazel, field maple and holly would start to break the dominance of the rhododendron and provide good wildlife value.

A seating area next to the pond would be a lovely addition for get togethers in the woods!"

Please remember some management operations require approval and/or a licence.