Great Pen Wood
About Great Pen Wood
Great Pen Wood is a Ancient semi-natural broadleaf in Buckinghamshire, near Penn. Managed by Woodland Trust, the woodland offers peaceful walks and is a fine example of ancient semi-natural broadleaf. The woodland is dominated by beech with oak, ash and cherry. The ground flora includes bluebells, wood anemones and dog's mercury. Birds include great spotted woodpecker, nuthatch, treecreeper and red kite. Badgers are present. The woodland has a rich fungal community including chanterelles.
Trees & Wildlife at Great Pen Wood
The woodland is dominated by beech with oak, ash and cherry. The ground flora includes bluebells, wood anemones and dog's mercury. Birds include great spotted woodpecker, nuthatch, treecreeper and red kite. Badgers are present. The woodland has a rich fungal community including chanterelles.
Location & Nearest Towns
Great Pen Wood is located in Buckinghamshire, England. The nearest town is Penn. Nearby places include Penn, High Wycombe.
Interesting Facts
- Great Pen Wood is in the Chilterns, which contains the largest continuous area of beech woodland in Britain.
- Red kites, reintroduced to the Chilterns in the 1990s after being extinct in England, are now a common sight over the woodland.
- The village of Penn has a history of tile-making, using the local clay beneath the woodland.
Visitor Tips for Great Pen Wood
Spring to Autumn offers the best conditions for woodland walking.
Walking boots or sturdy shoes, a waterproof jacket, an OS map, water and snacks. A dog lead if walking with your dog.
Roadside parking near the wood entrance. Informal paths. No visitor centre, toilets or cafe on site. Nearest facilities in Penn or Beaconsfield.
Dogs are welcome under close control. Keep on a lead near wildlife and during the bird breeding season.
Exploring Great Pen Wood
Great Pen Wood is a moderate-difficulty woodland walk in Buckinghamshire. The woodland is primarily Ancient semi-natural broadleaf, and the site is managed by Woodland Trust. Whether you're a seasoned walker or a first-time visitor, the woodland offers a peaceful escape among the trees.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is Great Pen Wood suitable for families?
Yes, the woodland has level paths suitable for families. Undulating terrain on the Chiltern plateau with informal paths. Some sections can be muddy. Access via footpaths from the road. Sturdy footwear recommended.
What is the best time to visit Great Pen Wood?
Spring to autumn offers the best walking conditions. April and May for bluebells. Spring for birdsong and red kite displays. Summer for shade and butterflies. Autumn for spectacular beech colour and fungi. Winter for bare-tree views.
Are dogs allowed in Great Pen Wood?
Dogs are welcome under close control. Keep on a lead near wildlife and during the bird breeding season.
Why Visit Great Pen Wood?
Great Pen Wood is a Ancient semi-natural broadleaf woodland in Buckinghamshire, England — one of the UK's finest woodland walks. Browse our full directory of UK woodland walks to discover more woods to explore.
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