Swan Wood
32ac/13ha
Grid ref: TQ 688 993
Updated 31/12/2023.
Available also via books and apps – click here for details.
Mouse over links for pictures; click for detail page.
This ancient woodland has a mix of broadleaved trees, including sweet chestnut and hornbeam coppice. An attractive stream runs through the wood, with alder trees along its banks. It is a bluebell wood, and yellow archangel, wood sorrel and wood anemone can also be found.
Remnants of its medieval wood banks can still be seen. The traditional practice of coppicing has been reintroduced for the hornbeam and sweet chestnut. Sycamore invading the wood is being felled.
It has a good range of woodland birds, including hawfinches.
Visiting
From Chelmsford or from the A12 take the B1007 south towards Billericay. In Stock turn right by The Cock PH into Swan Lane. Swan Wood is on the right after 400m. Park in the layby on the left.
Buses from Chelmsford to Billericay pass through Stock.
Accessible at all times.
.jpg)