Call Of The Forest

It has to be said that Cornwall is probably not best known for its woodlands. In fact, there are many areas, such as Bodmin Moor, that seem almost completely devoid of trees. This scarcity of trees only serves to make the pockets of woodland that we do have even more precious.

- John McFarlane

Cardinham Woods near Bodmin is one of the largest and best-loved areas of forest in Cornwall. Covering roughly 650 acres this woodland is large enough to really feel lost in, to escape the pressures of everyday life for a while, and is therefore considered by many to be a bit of a treasure. Here the lush green of the shady woodland makes a particularly pleasing contrast to the starkness of the moors that surround it. This is a place where wildlife and imagination can thrive.

"The forest means so many things to different visitors. For some, it is where they escape to disconnect from modern life and unwind." Says Becky Morris who works for Forestry England, the organization that cares for Cardinham Woods, "It's the place where they reconnect to nature through the trees, plants, wildlife, and streams."

The history of this ancient patch of woodland is long and not always quite as peaceful as it is today. Cardinham, as a settlement, has existed for more than 1000 years, the name probably translates from the Cornish 'Car' meaning enclosure and 'Dinas' meaning fortress. Cardinham Castle, the motte and bailey castle just beyond the confines of the woods, is thought to have been built by Robert de Mortain, the half-brother of William the Conqueror. But these days the woods are the responsibility of Forestry England, who have owned them since 1922. The original deciduous woods -oak, beech, hazel, birch, and holly, - are now interspersed with large, managed areas of larch, spruce and fir trees.

These woods are very much alive in every sense of the word and are much loved by local families and holidaymakers alike. Horses, walkers, dogs, and cyclists are all welcome. There are four walking and three cycle trails, each of which helps the visitor discover some of this green refuge's peace and tranquillity as well as its fascinating past.