Why saving ancient woodlands actually matters (and why it’s not too late)
Let’s face it, climate news can feel like a lot. But here’s something that might actually give you hope: ancient woodlands can be saved. In fact, they’re already being brought back to life - and it’s working.
What are ancient woodlands?
Ancient woodlands are forests that have existed for over 400 years (since at least 1600 in England or 1750 in Scotland). That makes them some of the oldest ecosystems in the UK.
Because they’ve developed naturally over centuries, they’re packed with rare species, plants, fungi, insects, birds - you name it. They’re also full of hidden history: old paths, boundaries, even archaeological features you won’t find in newer woods.
But here’s the reality: they now cover just 2.5% of UK land, and nearly 40% of what’s left has been damaged by past land use and neglect.
The good news is, restoration works!
This isn’t just wishful thinking, restoration is happening right now.
The Woodland Trust has helped more than 600 landowners restore over 38,000 hectares of ancient woodland that had been damaged by things like non-native tree plantations. That’s a huge area - bigger than Manchester.
And restoration doesn’t mean tearing everything down. It’s a slow, careful process that brings light back to the forest floor and gives native species a chance to recover.
How it's done:
Restoration starts by gradually thinning out dense, non-native trees. That lets sunlight reach the ground again - crucial for helping native plants grow and animals return.
But it’s not about rushing. If too much light floods in too fast, it can trigger the wrong kind of growth, like brambles and invasive weeds. So experts manage it gradually, letting ancient ecosystems recover at their own pace.
Why it matters:
Ancient woodlands are way more than just pretty scenery. They:
- Store over 77 million tonnes of carbon
- Absorb around 1.8 million tonnes of CO₂ every year (and that’s expected to triple)
- Support rare and endangered species
- Protect us from extreme weather
- Connect us to centuries of history
And once restored, they’re incredibly resilient - nature just needs the chance.
We're doing our part too
At One Tree Travel, we believe travel and nature should go hand in hand, not compete. That’s why we support woodland restoration efforts as part of our mission to give back to the planet. Whether it’s planting trees or backing long-term conservation, we’re proud to be part of the movement helping ancient woodlands recover, thrive, and inspire the next generation.
Ancient woodland is rare and irreplaceable. But the effort to restore it is working. Every hectare brought back is a win for wildlife, the climate, and the future.
So next time you hear about a woodland project, remember it’s not just about trees. It’s about hope, science, and communities (like ours) stepping up to make a difference.
Thanks for reading!
One Tree Travel 🌳
