Leigh Woods

Leigh Woods is located to the south west of Bristol, just over the Clifton suspension bridge. On the edge of the vibrant city, the forest is an unexpected sanctuary from the urban hustle and bustle.

As you enter the car park, slow down to admire the avenue of copper beech trees, planted to commemorate the coronation of Queen Elizabeth II in 1953.

Wildlife

Leigh Woods boasts a unique ecology thanks to its position on the edge of the Avon Gorge and its Site of Special Scientific Interest (SSSI). The forest is crisscrossed by a network of tracks that guide visitors past a variety of habitats, including high forest, coppice, and even an arboretum that was once part of the Leigh Court Estate.

The rich coppicing habitat supports an abundance of wildlife, including dormice and butterflies. Coppicing dates to the Stone Age and involves cutting trees back and leaving them to regrow from their stumps. The practice increases sunlight to reach the forest floor encouraging flora to grow. As you stroll around the red walking trail you will see large enclosed coppicing coupes which we are traditionally managing with the help of our volunteers.