Swannymote Woods

Swannymote Wood, on the northern National Forest boundary, is characterised by entangled trees and large rocky outcrops, with extensive views towards Nottingham and the Peak District. While forming part of our ‘new’ National Forest, the rock formations on the site are among the oldest in Britain, encasing prehistoric fossils and covered in lichens. Swannymote Rock stands in the neighbouring field, and gives the wood its name, itself named after a medieval outdoor court where swains (freeholders/judges) met to determine forest law.

Due to the rocky outcrops, the surrounding land is not easily farmed with machinery, hence there are pockets of mature woodland, comprising beech, oak, birch, rowan, holly and hazel. Some of the older beech trees are slowly disintegrating, each one providing a ‘hotel’ for a range of ‘mini-beasts’. The new woodland planting extends and links these pockets of mature woodland to the neighbouring Cademan Woods.

Swannymote can be visited as part of the charming 6.8-mile Blackbrook Beauty circular walk across a landscape rich in history, ancient woodlands and panoramic views over the Charnwood Forest.

• Walking trails
• Bouldering