Heartwood Forest
About Heartwood Forest
Heartwood Forest is a New native woodland and ancient woodland remnants in Hertfordshire, near Sandridge. Managed by Woodland Trust, the woodland offers peaceful walks and is a fine example of new native woodland and ancient woodland remnants. The new woodland features oak, ash, hornbeam, wild cherry and hazel. The ancient woodland pockets support bluebells, wood anemones and dog's mercury. Birds include skylark, yellowhammer and linnet in the open areas, and great spotted woodpecker and nuthatch in the old woods. Brown hares are common. Butterflies include ringlet and meadow brown.
Trees & Wildlife at Heartwood Forest
The new woodland features oak, ash, hornbeam, wild cherry and hazel. The ancient woodland pockets support bluebells, wood anemones and dog's mercury. Birds include skylark, yellowhammer and linnet in the open areas, and great spotted woodpecker and nuthatch in the old woods. Brown hares are common. Butterflies include ringlet and meadow brown.
Location & Nearest Towns
Heartwood Forest is located in Hertfordshire, England. The nearest town is Sandridge. Nearby places include St Albans, Sandridge.
Interesting Facts
- Heartwood Forest is the largest new native woodland in England, with over 600,000 trees planted by volunteers since 2009.
- The site contains several pockets of ancient woodland that predate the new planting by centuries, including bluebell-rich Heartwood Wood and Well Wood.
- The Woodland Trust acquired the 347-hectare site with help from a major public appeal, making it one of the most significant woodland creation projects of its time.
Visitor Tips for Heartwood Forest
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.
Car park off Nomansland Road. Waymarked trails including an all-abilities trail. Interpretation panels. No visitor centre or toilets on site. Nearest facilities in Wheathampstead or St Albans.
Dogs are welcome under close control. Keep on a lead near wildlife and during the bird breeding season.
Exploring Heartwood Forest
Heartwood Forest is a easy-difficulty woodland walk in Hertfordshire. The woodland is primarily New native woodland and ancient woodland remnants, 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 Heartwood Forest suitable for families?
Yes, the woodland has level paths suitable for families. Gently undulating terrain with well-maintained, mostly level paths including an all-abilities trail. Good access from the car park. Suitable for families, pushchairs and wheelchairs on the main routes.
What is the best time to visit Heartwood Forest?
Spring to autumn offers the best walking conditions. April and May for bluebells in the ancient woodland pockets. Spring for birdsong and new growth. Summer for wildflowers and butterflies in the open areas. Autumn for changing leaf colour. Winter for bare-tree views.
Are dogs allowed in Heartwood Forest?
Dogs are welcome under close control. Keep on a lead near wildlife and during the bird breeding season.
Why Visit Heartwood Forest?
Heartwood Forest is a New native woodland and ancient woodland remnants woodland in Hertfordshire, England — one of the UK's finest woodland walks. Browse our full directory of UK woodland walks to discover more woods to explore.
Nearby Woodland Walks to Explore
Looking beyond Heartwood Forest? These woodland walks are worth exploring.