Project completion: We’re pleased to share that the Buckenham Woodland Management Plan will be finalised at the end of June 2026. The final works are now concluding, and the latest updates are outlined below.
Northern boundary path: Work to improve this permissive footpath was delayed due to the wet winter, however the work was completed in May. This path allows all weather access to the wood. It will also protect the roots of the trees and ensure the recovery of the bluebells along this section of the woodland. Although the path may initially look new and out-of-keeping with the woodland landscape, it will soon blend in.
Creation of standing deadwood: We have received some enquiries about the bark stripping which can be seen on some of the trees in Buckenham Wood. Bark stripping in woodland management is the careful removal of bark from selected trees to create standing deadwood — a vital habitat for insects, birds, fungi and many other woodland species. It mimics natural decay and boosts biodiversity by providing food, shelter and nesting opportunities.
In Buckenham Wood, the trees chosen for this work are usually large sycamores. Sycamore is a non‑native species and often competes with our native hornbeam, and some other of our rarer veteran trees. Mature sycamores also produce huge quantities of seed, and the woodland floor can quickly become carpeted with sycamore saplings. This dense layer of young sycamore shades out delicate ground flora — including our bluebells — making it harder for them to thrive.
By converting selected sycamores into standing deadwood, we reduce this pressure, support our native species, and create rich new habitat all at once.
Find out more about bark stripping in the latest instalment of Bob’s Blog (here).
Interpretation signs: Keen‑eyed visitors will have spotted the newly installed interpretation signs around the central part of Buckenham Wood. Their installation marks the near‑completion of our recent woodland management work.
Four signs now highlight key wildlife you may see on your walk, as well as the long history of the wood — managed since medieval times and shaped by generations of local people. As part of caring for a healthy woodland ecosystem, the Trust will be reintroducing some of these traditional practices, such as coppicing.
We hope these signs help bring the story of Buckenham Wood to life and enhance your visit.
BAWT trustee Robert Morgan has released his June blog (here), where he explores the flowers that bloom in summer. He shares additonal information on the lates woodland management works, including the installation of four new information signs. Bob also highlights why practices such as bark stripping of trees are so important for supporting wildlife and maintaining a healthy woodland.
Thank you to everyone who took part in our recent woodland management feedback survey.
Over three‑quarters of respondents told us they felt positive or very positive about the recent woodland management works. We also heard concerns - just under a quarter felt the changes had gone too far. Some felt that the work had been too destructive while others were worried that areas now look too formal or less natural than before.
We’re really grateful for all the thoughtful comments shared. Your feedback is invaluable and will help shape how we communicate about the work of the Trust and future woodland management. We’ll be addressing the themes raised in the survey in future updates — so please keep an eye out for more information.
Our amazing volunteers have been busy in Buckenham Wood over the past two months. They’ve been helping to keep paths clear, cutting back vegetation where it tends to grow over, and adding new edging in places using some of the thinned sycamore saplings.
💚🍄🌳Looking for a fun way to get some exercise and fresh air? 🌳🍄💚
Why not join one of our future volunteer work parties! It’s a brilliant way to meet new people and burn some calories at the same time. Our woodland working sessions are usually 2 hours long.
Find out more about what to expect on our website (find out more here) or sign up to our mailing list (find out more here) to receive email updates about upcoming work days—we’d love to see you there.
This year’s BAWT Bluebell Day was a real success, with perfect spring weather and the woodland glowing with colour. The bluebells were looking spectacular, especially along the northern boundary path by the BAWT sign — a clear sign that winter’s sycamore‑removal work is already paying off.
These photos highlight just how much has changed in less than a year. The first image, taken in July 2025, shows the height of the sycamore saplings that once filled the central area near the BAWT sign (northern boundary path). The bluebells recovered quickly after the work and put on a beautiful display in May 2026.
We loved meeting so many enthusiastic visitors and sharing how recent management work is helping the wood to thrive. Some areas may look a little messy just now, but opening the canopy to allow in more light has led to healthier growth and a noticeably stronger bluebell display this spring.
We look forward to next year's Bluebell Day, where we hope the display will be even better!
The BAWT photo competition is back!
Five winning images will be turned into blank notecards to help support Buckenham Ancient Woodland Trust. We can’t wait to see what you capture for our theme ‘mindful moments in nature’.
Entries close 1st August.
Select the button below to find out more about the competition, or use this link.
22-26th June, contractors will be on site performing maintenance work on the telecommunications mast.
You may notice people working in and around the area of the mast. There may also be one or two vehicles parked near the mast. You may be directed to use a different route for safety reasons.
Thank you for your patience during this time.
BAWT purchased the woodland in October 2024, starting the hard work and financial commitment to maintain it. Let’s all get together to help ensure that the local community continues to benefit from our Ancient Woodland for generations to come.
1. Become a member – it’s free!
We need members so that funders can see we have community support, and to guide our decisions.
2. Volunteer
We need more volunteers to help join us run the Trust, and to help with practical tasks in the wood.
3. Donate
We’re currently updating our donation system—thank you for bearing with us.
4. Follow us on Facebook
Please follow and share us on Facebook.
5. Spread the word
If you think you know someone who would enjoy getting involved with our work please tell them about our website, where they can find out more about us.
This project is funded by the Greater Norwich Growth Board through the Infrastructure Investment Fund.
This project is part-funded by the UK Government and Broadland District Council through the UK Shared Prosperity Fund. This project is part-funded by Broadland District Council through their s106 Green Infrastructure Fund.