About the reserve

One of Britain’s finest ancient woodlands, Bradfield Woods is a glorious haven for wildlife and a fascinating remnant of England’s woodland heritage.

Bradfield Woods has been traditionally managed as a coppice woodland since 1252. Over the centuries, the process of coppicing was carried out to create straight poles of wood that were perfect for construction and early industry. However, the coppiced trees also provide dense woody habitat that’s perfect for wildlife including hazel dormouse, woodland birds, wildflowers, and fungi. Some ash coppice stools in the woods are thought to be over 1,000 years old!

To maintain the unique, wildlife-rich habitat of Bradfield Woods, we continue to use many of the same traditional, woodland management techniques to protect this special place for centuries to come.

If you're interested in buying coppice products from Bradfield Woods, visit our Coppicing products webpage for details:

Coppicing products for sale