Trail details
Grade of Trail:
- Easy
Trail Waymarking:
PurpleLength of trail:
0.75 milesTrail is currently open
Trail description
The name of the Elephant Pond comes from the Second World War, when elephants from a travelling circus were used to pull felled trees out of the Forest. The elephants were allowed to go into the pond after a hard day’s work and so the pond became to be known by its large bathers.
Many bird species can be seen and heard along the trail during the year, including jays, most tit species, green and great spotted woodpeckers and even a buzzard. Occasionally a deer and even a fox can be seen. The site is excellent for butterfly species, including the rare Wood White, the Purple Emperor and the Black Hairstreak.
The trees on this trail are a mix of the species which can be found across the site, going from young and relatively old oaks to conifer plantation areas, past a magnificent pair of horse chestnuts and under a large lime tree.
The trail incorporates the exciting Tree Top Way, a canopy walkway which rises to a height of 20 metres, giving a real 'squirrel's eye view'! The walkway is wheelchair accessible to a height of 15 metres.
It is very family and dog friendly (please keep under close control and respect other site users) and is classified as “all ability”, meaning it is good for wheelchairs and prams.
What do other visitors say?
Maggie, 16/Apr/20154 Stars
I visit this forest at least three times a week to walk my two German Shepherds, who love the walks, the smells and the ponds! The walks are well signed, mostly flat and accessible for both walking and buggies/wheelchairs, and there is lots to see. My treat at the end of our walk is the cafe where I treat myself to a drink and cake.
Forestry Commission Response
Please tell us about your visit
Please email us at sherwood.fdo@forestry.gsi.gov.uk if you have an enquiry, a complaint or would like a personal reply to your comments.