Our latest groundworks and the importance of good forestry management.
If you follow us on Facebook, Instagram, or Twitter you will have seen that we have recently been carrying out work on our grounds. Being set high above Malvern in eight acres of woodland with unforgettable views of the Cotswolds, it’s an essential and important part of our maintenance. Not only to maintain our spectacular views and woodland, but for the health of the Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty (AONB) which we are so lucky to be situated in.
What is an ‘Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty?’
As defined by www.landscapesforlife.org.uk, an Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty (AONB) is a designated exceptional landscape whose distinctive character and natural beauty are precious enough to be safeguarded in the national interest. The Malvern Hills is one, and we couldn’t agree more about it’s natural beauty and distinctive character. You can find out more about Malvern Hills AONB at www.malvernhillsaonb.org.uk/
Good forestry management is a term which we have become well acquainted with over the past few months, and we have learnt a lot about the importance of maintaining and caring for the beautiful woodland which surrounds us. The UK Forestry Standard sets out guidelines for sustainable forest management across the UK, and these have been key for the works which we have been completing. The guidelines include considerations for sustainable forest management, climate change, biodiversity and the protection of water resources. Some very important topics that are important to The Cottage in the Wood!
All of the groundworks that we have been working on in the early months of 2021 have been essential works to care for our forestry. Working with Pollard Horticulture ltd, Ancient Oak Tree Surgeons and The Bearded Arborist, we have undergone a programme of works which has included clearing areas to promote growth, creating nature habitats, and unfortunately needing to remove some of our beautiful Ash trees. Ash dieback, a fungal disease entered the UK in 2012 and has swept the country, particularly the South East, and sadly some of the beautiful trees on our grounds too. We do hope to see the impact of Ash dieback on the country’s woodlands to be written into the government’s England Tree Strategy as called for by The National Trust.
Yes we have, and we’re very excited about some of the findings!
We’re beginning to see signs of bluebells arriving in one of the clearances, and we are eagerly awaiting Spring to see them bloom.
The clearance work has also opened up the view to the beautiful beech trees situated right behind Beech Cottage. Now the name Beech Cottage makes a lot more sense!
The view from the hotel, restaurant and terrace has changed too, giving us a new perspective on our surroundings.
More natural habitat will now be gracing our grounds, with the introduction of habitat holes which we’ve created to welcome nature.
If you have any questions about our groundworks please contact us on reception@cottageinthewood.co.uk.
We’re open for hotel and restaurant bookings now. You can book your next getaway here, and you can book a table for lunch, dinner or afternoon tea here.
