1 week Ago By [email protected] (Cait Findlay)
Trees in Hatfield Forest, Essex, in autumn (Image: ©NTPL/David Sellman) While you might not ever get to run through the hallways of Buckingham Palace or stroll through Balmoral, there are some places in the UK where you can tread the same paths as historic monarchs. Hatfield Forest, just a short distance from Cambridge down the M11, is one such place . The forest was once a royal hunting forest, where medieval aristocrats hunted deer for sport.
The National Trust , who owns and runs the historic forest, say it is the best surviving example of an almost-complete royal hunting forest in Britain. The hunting forest was created nearly 1000 years ago by King Henry I, with hunting rights for royals in place until 1446. Much of what visitors to the forest see today is medieval in origin, with traditional woodland management techniques still in use to keep the forest healthy.
More than 3,500 species of wildlife call the forest their home – and some of the trees are more than 1,000 years old. However, unlike some of the National Trust's stately homes, Hatfield Forest is a place where children (and adults) can let off some steam in the fresh air. The National Trust website says: "Whether you want somewhere for the children to run off energy or a place for quiet reflection, you will find your own special place in Hatfield Forest.
In the winter, to reduce damage to the forest, car parking is limited to the hard standing area only. The car parks will be closed when they reach capacity." There is a lake in the forest (Image: ©NTPL/David Sellman) The forest has now been open to the public for 100 years after being bequeathed to the National Trust in May 1924.
A Roman road runs along the northern border, while Portingbury Hills and The Warren are manmade earthworks with historic significance. As well as exploring the forest trails on foot or bike, visitors can browse the bookshop and refuel at the café. Dogs are also welcomed in the forest, but owners should take care to follow instructions around livestock.
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