Haresfield Beacon & Standish Wood - National Trust

Location

About

If you're looking for a picturesque and tranquil spot to explore in England, Haresfield Beacon and Standish Wood is an ideal destination to consider. This stunning National Trust property is located in the heart of the Cotswolds and offers visitors breathtaking views of the surrounding countryside. With plenty of walking trails, historic landmarks, and wildlife to observe, Haresfield Beacon and Standish Wood is a perfect day out for tourists of all ages.

Haresfield Beacon is a prominent hill that stands at 272 meters above sea level. From its summit, visitors can enjoy a panoramic view of the Severn Vale, Gloucester Cathedral, and the Forest of Dean. The hill is home to an Iron Age hill fort that dates back over 2,500 years. The fort was once the site of a fierce battle between the Royalists and Parliamentarians during the English Civil War. Today, visitors can explore the ruins of the fort and learn about its fascinating history.

Standish Wood is a beautiful ancient woodland that covers an area of 200 acres. The woodland is home to a variety of wildlife, including badgers, deer, and foxes. Visitors can explore the woodland on foot and discover its many hidden secrets. The woodland is also home to the Standish Obelisk, a 37-meter-high monument that was erected in memory of Admiral George Standish.

For those who love walking, there are several trails to choose from, ranging from easy to more challenging. The Cotswold Way National Trail passes through Haresfield Beacon, making it a popular spot for hikers. The hill is also a popular spot for paragliding and hang gliding enthusiasts, who can take advantage of the strong thermals that rise from the valley below.

One of the best things about Haresfield Beacon and Standish Wood is that it's a year-round destination. During the spring and summer months, visitors can enjoy the wildflowers that bloom throughout the woodland. In the autumn, the woodland is transformed into a sea of red, orange, and gold as the leaves change color. In the winter, the hill is often covered in a blanket of snow, creating a magical winter wonderland.

The National Trust manages Haresfield Beacon and Standish Wood, and there is a small fee for visitors to access the property. However, the fee is well worth it, as it helps to support the ongoing conservation efforts of the National Trust. Visitors can also enjoy a cup of tea or coffee and a snack at the onsite cafe, which offers stunning views of the surrounding countryside.

In conclusion, Haresfield Beacon and Standish Wood is a beautiful and scenic spot in England that's well worth a visit. With its stunning views, historic landmarks, and abundance of wildlife, it's the perfect destination for tourists who love nature and the great outdoors. Whether you're a keen hiker or simply looking for a peaceful spot to relax and unwind, Haresfield Beacon and Standish Wood is sure to leave a lasting impression.

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Things to do nearby

Haresfield Beacon and Standish Wood, located in Gloucestershire, England, are beautiful and historic sites that offer a wide range of activities for tourists. From hiking and cycling to exploring the area's rich cultural heritage, there's something for everyone here.

Hiking and Walking Trails

For those who enjoy hiking, Haresfield Beacon and Standish Wood offer some excellent walking trails. One of the most popular routes is the Beacon and Woodland Trail, a three-mile circular walk that takes visitors through the heart of the woodlands and up to the Beacon, where they can enjoy spectacular views of the surrounding countryside. The trail is relatively easy, making it ideal for families with children or beginners.

For more experienced hikers, the Cotswold Way National Trail passes through Haresfield Beacon and offers stunning views of the surrounding countryside. This 102-mile trail runs from Chipping Campden to Bath and is one of the most popular long-distance walking routes in the UK.

Cycling

Cycling enthusiasts can explore the area's beautiful countryside on two wheels. The Beacon and Woodland Trail is also suitable for cycling, and visitors can rent bikes from nearby shops in Stroud or Gloucester. For more experienced cyclists, the Cotswold Edge Cycle Route is a challenging ride that takes in the area's stunning countryside.

Historical Sites

Haresfield Beacon and Standish Wood have a rich cultural heritage, with many historical sites to explore. Haresfield Beacon itself is an Iron Age hillfort, and visitors can explore the ancient earthworks that surround it. There's also a medieval tower on the site that was used as a lookout during the English Civil War.

Standish Wood is home to the remains of a Roman villa, which was excavated in the 19th century. Visitors can see the remains of the villa's mosaic floors and walls, as well as the hypocaust system that was used to heat the building.

Other Attractions

The area around Haresfield Beacon and Standish Wood is also home to some other attractions that are well worth a visit. The nearby village of Painswick is known for its beautiful churchyard, which is filled with ancient yew trees. Visitors can also explore the Rococo Garden, a beautiful 18th-century garden that is famous for its intricate design.

Finally, visitors to the area should take the time to visit Gloucester Cathedral, which is one of the most spectacular cathedrals in the UK. The cathedral dates back to the 11th century and is home to many historical treasures, including the tomb of King Edward II.

In conclusion, Haresfield Beacon and Standish Wood are two beautiful and historic sites that offer a wide range of activities for tourists. Whether you're interested in hiking, cycling, or exploring the area's rich cultural heritage, there's something for everyone here. So, pack your bags, and head to Gloucestershire to explore these hidden gems.