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Great Trees of The Lodge

The Lodge Reserve and Gardens are a wonderful site for all manner of wildlife, not least of all trees. Many of our fantastic trees have been shaped by the land and elements, whilst others have been shaped and managed by people.

This is a site of contrasts, with a 19th-Century mansion residing in the middle of a nature reserve. Once manicured gardens are now being encouraged to let their hair down and get wilder again, with birds, plants and insects finding new homes amongst the ageing pagodas and parapets.

From the Gatehouse shop to The Lodge, looming sentinels have stood over these changes, representative of the change in ownership. Many, like the gigantic sequoia, were brought in as a non-native status symbol by previous landowners. Others, smaller in stature, have become giants in their own rights, like our champion strawberry tree - the largest in the land.

Want to learn more? Join us for a walk with Andy, one of our volunteers and a tree enthusiast, and gain insights into the some of the great trees to be seen here at The Lodge Reserve.

Bring binoculars and tree guides if you have them, but neither are essential. Both can be purchased in the shop and binoculars can also be rented.

Please wear appropriate clothing and footwear. The walk will involve uneven terrain and is not suitable for wheelchair users unfortunately. If you have any mobility issues, please contact us before purchasing any tickets.

Although children are welcome to attend, this event is aimed at adults, and they might become bored!

Ticket does not include parking, which is £6 all-day for non-members and free for members.

Please meet in the picnic area next to the Gatehouse shop.

Photos courtesy of Mrs Shaw.

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