Rotherham's Woodland Estate

Rotherham's Woodland Estate

The Council owns 43 woodlands across the borough totalling 484 hectares. They offer many things to do and see and all are open for activities such as walking, running, photography and natural history study. Some also offer opportunities for horse-riding, cycling, orienteering and exploration of features of archaeological interest.

The woodlands vary greatly in age from those recently established on reclamation sites to ancient semi-natural woodlands. Almost half of the sites are classed as ancient semi-natural woodlands. These places have been continuously wooded for at least 400 years and are nationally recognised as the most important woodland type in England for nature conservation. Also, because of their long history they are a living record of the past reflecting the landscape, industrial and social history of Rotherham, as well as being home for a wide variety of special wildlife.

However, all of the woodlands, young and old, are a major part of the natural environment and an important factor in the quality of life in the borough. Together with their wildlife, recreation and archaeology benefits they contribute considerably to the local landscape, improving the local environment and helping to promote Rotherham as a setting for investment.