Marvels and Elmstead Woods Elmstead and Marvels Woods are a reminder of the ancient woodlands that at one time would have covered vast parts of what is now urban landscape in this area. The woods once formed part of the Bishop of Rochester's estate, and the trees were used to provide timber for ship building. The ancient trees include hornbeam, oak and coppiced sweet chestnut, as well as the rarer wild-service tree. It is a local haven for wildlife, including butterflies such as the comma. Three spined stickleback can be seen in the stream that runs past the Sports Ground. Links
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Watch the video to see a personal account of living by the woods from Brian Gaskell, Chairman of the Friends of Mottingham Woods Society. |