Woodland & Forestry

Almost 9% of the AONB is woodland making it an important feature. Woodland can be found particularly along the Cotswold escarpment, in secluded valleys and in significant blocks in the east.

Last century, many of the traditionally managed woodlands were felled, cleared, then replanted and consequently conifers have now become part of the Cotswold landscape.

However, the woodlands of the valleys and escarpment continue to be dominated by hardwoods, and fine examples of ancient beech woods, which once extended over the whole of the Cotswolds, can still be found.

Ancient woodlands, particularly beech are a priority habitat within the AONB and much of the existing woodland and forestry is important because they are important wildlife habitats and support biodiversity.

Click here to find out about woodland conservation in the AONB.