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Savernake

(Average user rating5 unrated 4.7/5)
 

The old Forest of Savernake is derived from ancient wood pasture management, and has many veteran trees.  The forest extends to 1100 hectares (2750 acres) most of which is classified as a Special Site of Scientific Interest (SSSI) as well as being registered as an important historic park.

One of the oldest trees is the Big Bellied Oak which is very noticeable on the side of the A346 road, south of Cadley.  There are many other old and named trees in Savernake, a guide is available to purchase from the Postern Hill Campsite or the Tourist Information Centre in Marlborough's library.

Since 1939 the majority of the woodland has been managed by the Forestry Commission with the freehold retained by the Savernake Estate.

How to get there:

Savernake is part of Marlborough Woodlands. Marlborough is the nearest town or village.

Via M4, at junction 15 take the A346 through Marlborough, Savernake forest is accessible from there onwards.

OS Grid Reference: SU198679
For details of public transport visit http://www.transportdirect.info

Start your visit from:

Postern Hill Picnic Site

Other places to go in Marlborough Woodlands

User Comments

5 Stars 5 Stars

What a fantastic and special place! I am a frequent visitor and together with my wife we are trying to find all the named oaks. We are having a bit of trouble with Ayers Oak and Slingsby Oak. Are there name signs for these Oaks? We are using the Peter Noble Guide, (2007) from The White Horse Bookshop in Marlborough

Martin Andrews, 6/Jun/2011
3 Stars 3 Stars

Lovely but a what a pity about the regular rows and rows of farmed conifers, with no undergrowth in the hollowed out, once grand, old beech & oak forest. :(

Fredrick Rouse, 12/Feb/2011

Pity the Track Reinstatement wrork in Savenake Forest commenced when the weather was wet. The damage caused by heavy vehicles has made this track almost impassable. Now the weather is colder, the ground frozen and better able to support the weight of vehicles, the work has stopped. I hope this beautiful track will be reinstated before Springtime and not simply left in its current impassable state.

David Nesham, 7/Dec/2010
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Please tell us about your visit

Please email us at dean@forestry.gsi.gov.uk if you have an enquiry or would like a reply to your comments.

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One of the biggest oaks in Britain, the King of the Limbs in Savernake forest

Facilities and Activities

ToiletsParkingOther Facilities
WalkingBarbecue

Contact:

Forest Of Dean Recreation Ranger
01594 833057
e-mail: dean@forestry.gsi.gov.uk

What's of interest

There are many beech trees along Grand Avenue which at 3.9 miles is the longest avenue in Britain.