Epping Forest has been chosen as part of a nationwide network of 70 ancient woodlands to be dedicated to The Queen in celebration of the Platinum Jubilee.
The Queen’s Green Canopy recently announced the network of 70 ancient woodlands and 70 ancient trees across the United Kingdom which will form part of the ‘Ancient Canopy’ to celebrate Her Majesty’s 70 years of service.
The Ancient Canopy is an opportunity to protect and appreciate ancient woodlands and trees and was launched by His Royal Highness The Prince of Wales, who is Patron of The Queen’s Green Canopy.
Epping Forest is London and Essex’s largest green space and is known as the green lungs of London, at almost 6,000 acres.
Ancient trees in Epping Forest. Photo: Yve Woodhouse, City of London Corporation
A former royal hunting forest, it was saved from destruction in the 19th century by the Corporation of London and an act of parliament entrusted the ownership and care of Epping Forest to the City of London Corporation. It was also dedicated as a Queen’s Commonwealth Canopy with a visit by HRH Prince Harry in March 2017.
Ashtead Common in Surrey and Burnham Beeches in Buckinghamshire, are also part of the canopy, as well as a Black Mulberry tree in the grounds of the Keats House Museum, Hampstead, where Romantic poet John Keats wrote some of his most famous poems including Ode to a Nightingale.
Caroline Haines, chair of the City of London Corporation’s open spaces committee, said: “We are thrilled to have a number of our woodlands celebrated and recognised in the Queen’s Green Canopy.
“It is a chance to highlight the heritage of these wonderful ancient trees, whilst teaching about the importance of their conservation and how we must continue to work hard preserving them.
“These woodlands hold memories and stories for so many, and we want them to be there in years to come for future generations to enjoy.”
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 these treasured habitats and the importance of conserving them for future generations.
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