Wentwood

Wildlife and habitats

Animals

Wentwood is teeming with wildlife. Look out for wood ant nests which can be up to four feet high and listen for the sweet song of the wood warbler on warm summer days. Over 70 species of bird and 23 species of butterfly have been recorded on site.

Trees, plants and fungi

After continued historical use of the native trees at Wentwood, the majority of the deciduous trees were felled during the Second World War and the wood replanted with conifers in the 1950s and 1960s. The woodland is now regenerating and native trees have been reintroduced.

Be sure to look out for some of the weird and wonderful fungi species that grow in the wood, such as the fly agaric and chanterelle.

Habitats

Despite the damage caused by conifer plantations, Wentwood provides a diverse and important habitat for many rare species. As regeneration continues, this valuable area continues to support local flora and wildlife.

History of Wentwood

Wentwood forms part of the largest block of ancient woodland in Wales, and is a remnant of the continuous forest that once stretched from the River Usk to the Wye. There are a number of Bronze Age tumuli (funerary barrows) on the ridge tops, and in Roman times the wood was an important source of timber.

Wentwood is mentioned in ancient texts, such as the 12th-century Book of Llandaff, one of Wales’ earliest ecclesiastical manuscripts. In 1271, a survey for the Lord of Chepstow listed 21 tenants with rights to timber and firewood. 

During the 15th century, it was the haunt of outlaws following the Welsh revolt against English rule, led by the prince, Owain Glyndwr.

In 1584, a forest court known as the Speech Court of the Forest of Wentwood was established at the Foresters’ Oaks, two huge trees which no longer remain.

In the 17th century, the forest was owned by the Earl of Worcester, and in 1630 a third of it was enclosed, despite huge protests from those with traditional rights. Major felling then took place to provide charcoal for local industry and this was the start of a process which led to the disappearance of all ancient rights. Evidence of the site’s industrial heritage can still be seen in the form of charcoal hearths and the remains of a mill. 

Acquisition and restoration

By the 1960s, all the woodland now in the Trust’s ownership was planted with conifers. We bought part of Wentwood in 2006 and have since thinned the conifers to restore the ancient woodland, heathland and wood pasture, and improve habitats for wildlife.

Things to do in Wentwood

Walking

Looking for more than a quick stroll in the woods? The 77km (48-mile) Usk Valley Walk, from Caerleon to Brecon, also passes through Wentwood.