The history of Walk Wood
In 1982, an area of woodland adjacent to the garden was purchased by the National Trust with the intention that it would provide a windbreak for the garden. At that time, it consisted of mixed coniferous and broadleaf with forestry planting. This area of the garden was largely left to its own devices until in 2002 Sheffield Park began a woodland management plan to create better light levels to increase the quality and diversity of fauna and flora, not least the stunning collection of bluebells. It was during this work that the historical significance of Walk Wood was unearthed, with remains of planting and paths going back to the original 18th century design for the garden.
Thanks to funding from a legacy left to the National Trust and the Woodland Grant Scheme, the project to protect Walk Wood and create visitor access routes through the woodland began. Volunteer groups, contractors and staff erected deer fences, improved access routes, undertook planting (mainly English Oak) and started controlling invasive species such as Himalayan Balsam. Advice was taken from Nature Conservation officers, forestry officers and historic curators as to the best way to improve and conserve this important habitat. Boardwalks were built, path networks were re-instated and historical access points from the garden were added.
As light levels increased and pathways and rides opened up, so wildlife began to thrive and a diverse habitat of plants, fungi, insects, birds and mammals can be found in abundance. Careful conservation work has continued each year and just as the team put the final finishing touches to restoration work ready for March 2022 re-opening, Storm Eunice hit. For the first time in many years, the woodland provided an effective windbreak for the garden and took the brunt of the storm’s force. The significant treefall and storm damage is still evident, but we are delighted to have been able to make safe so quickly this much-loved area of the garden and open Walk Wood to visitors in time for spring 2022.