Cheshire’s ancient woodlands are a cherished part of the county’s natural heritage, offering not just a haven for wildlife but also a repository of memories for generations of local people. These woodlands, some of which have existed since medieval times, provide an enchanting escape into nature and a living connection to the past. As we look to the future, there is enormous potential to increase our native tree cover, benefiting wildlife, farming and the wider environment.

For many of us who grew up in Cheshire, woodlands hold a special place in our hearts. As children, we often wandered through these magical forests, our imaginations set free by the towering trees and the dappled sunlight that filtered through the canopy. In woodlands and forests such as Delamere Forest and Marbury Country Park, the massive oaks and beeches provided perfect hiding spots, their gnarled trunks offering refuge from friends during games of hide and seek. The thrill of being discovered or finding a new hiding place is a memory many of us cherish deeply.