Buckler’s Forest

Region: South Central

Set amongst large areas of forest with open grasslands, heathlands and wetlands, this striking site has been created on land that was previously part of the Transport Research Laboratory (TRL). Elements of its fascinating past and the transport research that once took place here can now be seen imaginatively repurposed across the site for all to enjoy. With plenty of space for both wildlife and people, the site has wide surfaced tracks - perfect for walking, running or cycling.

The Present and the Future

Buckler’s Forest is managed in partnership with Bracknell Forest Council for the benefit of local residents and wildlife. The Council’s Rangers look after the site on a day-to day-basis and run community events. For news, details of events and volunteering opportunities sign up here to receive the Bracknell Forest Council Parks and Countryside Newsletter.

Buckler’s Forest Contact


The site contact for our Buckler’s Forest space is the Ranger Team Tel: 01344 354441

This space is managed in partnership with Bracknell Forest Council

Visitor Information

Opening Hours

Open access

Car Parking

Yes - off Woodcote Green. What3Words: data.stand.motion

Toilets


(click here to find the nearest public toilets)

Café

The Golden Retriever is nearby on Nine Mile Ride (open daily).

Entrance cost

The site is free to use.

Accessibility

Wide, surfaced tracks and several benches. Mostly level ground throughout with moderate slopes in some areas.

Footpaths

Yes. Choice of circular walking routes: 1.3km, 2.4km & 3.6km

Dogs

Well-controlled dogs are welcome.

Things to do

Character areas include Garages Pond, The Pan, Fire Tower, Banked Curve, Small Roads, Hill Start Hill and Clay Hill. Several former TRL green communications cabinets can be found around the site, re-purposed as special features including wayfinding prompts, a noticeboard, sheltered seating, a soil profile terrarium, insect habitats and a history museum.

Conservation, Wildlife, Flora, Fauna

Large areas of 1960’s Scots Pine plantation. Diversified in 2018 with new broadleaved woodland, natural and acid grassland, heathland, wetland hollows ditches and ponds. Rich in biodiversity, species highlights include Crossbill, Wood Lark, Grayling and Silver-studded Blue butterfly, Scarce Blue-tailed Damselfly and Golden-ringed Dragonfly. Designated a Local Wildlife Site in 2024.

Other nearby attractions

The Lookout Discovery Centre, Swinley Forest and Caesar's Camp.

Other Links

View the link

Location

Woodcote Green, Crowthorne, Berkshire, RG45 6HZ

Site size: 40.5 hectares

Events

There are currently no events relating to this space.

View all events

History

Buckler’s Forest SANG (Suitable Alternative Natural Greenspace) was created in 2018 on land that was previously part of the Transport Research Laboratory (TRL) and is adjacent to the Thames Basin Heath Special Protection Area (SPA). The purpose of this and other local SANGs is to mitigate the potential increased recreational pressure of new housing on the SPA and thereby protect the fragile SPA biodiversity.

The Land Trust took over responsibility for Buckler’s Forest in March 2022 and manages the site in partnership with Bracknell Forest Council, which undertakes the day-to-day site management.

Development

Bracknell Forest Council is working in partnership with The Land Trust to maximise the benefits for the local community from this important public greenspace. Current and future management seeks to enhance the biodiversity and recreational value of the site. In recognition of the evolving land management that has produced an important site for Berkshire’s wildlife, Buckler’s Forest was designated as a Local Wildlife Site (LWS) in February 2024.

 

Land Trust Contact

To contact the Land Trust about this site or how we could help manage your space please email our Estate Manager Steve Crosby .

To enquire about holding an event on a Land Trust site, please click here.

Our other spaces in the South Central

How you can help

We are always on the look out for enthusiastic, committed people who want to make a real and lasting difference in their local community.

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