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London's woodland++ history
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Woodland heritage++ project
Photograph © Mathew Frith
Woodland covers 8% of London’s land area stretching from the Green Belt toward the centre of the Capital. The extent of woodlands across London reminds us that where the city now stands there was once vast and ancient woodland.
As we enter the 21st century, however, London’s woodlands face severe challenges and many are under threat. Threats range from local problems such as vandalism and antisocial behaviour, which frequently prevent Londoners from using and enjoying their natural woodland heritage, to wider issues such as climate change and pollution.
London has a strong historical connection to woodlands, indicated by the woodland nature of many of London’s place names: Abbey Wood, Beacontree, Colliers Wood, Elmers End, Forest Gate, Norwood and Wood Green are all examples.
Over 200 of London’s roads are named after woods; over 300 are named after woodland trees. How many pubs have you visited with trees or woodlands in their names? The Woodman, The Green Man, The Cherry Tree, The Carpenters Arms, The Foresters, The Royal Oak…
Read more about London’s woodland history as described by Mathew Frith and Richard Barnes
London's Woodland History