The restored lime kiln at Hyning Scout Wood

The woodland - a mixture of mature ash, sycamore, sweet chestnut, oak and beech that has evolved on the clints (limestone blocks) and grikes (water-eroded gaps) of the limestone pavement here. Significant parts of the wood are semi-natural ancient woodland and are rich in biodiversity.

Rare ferns and flowers found here include the downy currant and the rigid buckler fern. Red squirrels have been seen around Hyning recently, although they are hard to spot and under great pressure from grey squirrels.

Roe deer are often spotted in the wood too, but it is best to visit the wood early in the day and tread quietly to be in with a chance of seeing both these graceful animals.

A restored lime kiln sits brooding in the southern part of the wood. The kiln is made of huge blocks of limestone and is set into a natural outcrop of pavement too. The kiln has a broad, shallow bowl, which indicates wood was the fuel used to produce or "burn" lime. The limestone rock that was burnt to produce lime was probably quarried within the woodland itself. Today the limestone pavement is legally protected from excavation and damage.

Many well used footpaths provide good circular walks and link up with routes across neighbouring countryside. Care should be taken on the limestone pavements which can become slippery when wet.

Click to visit the Woodland Trust website page about Hyning Scout wood