Two beloved and beautiful ancient woodlands on the Launde Abbey estate have been selected to be part of the Queen’s Green Canopy in celebration of the Platinum Jubilee.
Launde Park Wood and Launde Big Wood have been chosen as part of a nationwide network of just 70 ancient woodlands to be dedicated to The Queen and will form the Ancient Canopy marking Her Majesty’s 70 years of service.
These woods, which date back to the days of the original priory, are well known to many from across the diocese and beyond who retreat at Launde and enjoy their peace and biodiversity.
Made up of two of the most ancient woodlands in Leicestershire, stepping into Launde Park Wood and Launde Big Wood is like stepping back in time. Oak, ash, hazel and field maple dominate Big Wood to the west, whilst Park Wood to the east was once a Forestry Commission plantation.
The woodlands are under long term management as nature reserves by Leicestershire and Rutland Wildlife Trust, who work to preserve this area for wildlife and future generations to enjoy.
Head of Conservation at Leicestershire and Rutland Wildlife Trust, John Clarkson, said: “Owned by the Launde Abbey charitable trust, the Launde Woods are both amazing places for wildlife with a fascinating cultural history.
“Right now, they are woodlands with magnificent trees and woodland wildflowers that provide a safe haven for many wildlife species, including bats.
“In the past, both woodlands were part of the Royal Leighfield Forest and part of the lands associated with Launde Priory (now Launde Abbey), later appropriated by Thomas Cromwell after the dissolution of the monasteries. For now, we call them ancient semi-natural woodlands, to reflect and acknowledge their long cultural and ecological importance.”
By sharing the stories behind the ancient woodlands and trees, as well as the incredible efforts that are made to protect them, The Queen’s Green Canopy aims to raise awareness of treasured habitats such as the Launde woodlands and the importance of conserving them for future generations.
Revd. Alison Myers, Warden of Launde Abbey, said: “Walking in ancient woodland is, for me and for many, a spiritual experience - it connects us with the natural world, and life that began before us and will continue after us.
“The ancient Launde woodlands go hand in hand with Launde Abbey’s long spiritual history, reaching back to the time of the monks of the original Priory and forward to the current Abbey and its grounds which are home to a praying community today.
“We are thrilled that Launde Abbey’s ancient woodlands are part of the Queen’s Green Canopy, not least because over the last two difficult years more and more people have discovered the blessing of walking in woods. When you next visit Launde Abbey, do include walking in our beautiful woodlands as part of your retreat.”
