Wizened of Wilverely

The forest was subdued this morning, quiet and still, but for a gentle breeze which slowly swayed the high canopy. The forest takes on an eerie air when it's like this. The only signs of life where the occasional short burst of bird song, beyond that nothing stirred. Though I knew hidden eyes watch my transit from every direction. As New Forest enclosures go, Wilverley is thick and dense, making for isolated walks, which only adds to the eerie. The enclosure enjoys an interesting mix of trees, veteran and ancient deciduous trees hold their ground against the tall mature conifers and their invasive young. Where they meet and blocks of each bleed into each other, there's a struggle for sovereignty. For some the competition is too great, smothered and denied what they require to thrive, they shrink back and wizen, naked trunks sprouting bare boughs. Like this tall Beech, who although no longer sports leaves, will still remain a presence in the wood for decades to come. A skeletal memorial sculpture of a forgotten woodland, as Wilverley has history. First enclosed in 1775 Wilverley was one of the last enclosed under the first New Forest Act of 1698, a 500 acre deciduous woodland of Oak and Beech. Over the following two centuries it was thrown open, enclosed, re-enclosed as forestry needs changed. As blocks of timber have matured and have been harvested, coniferous species frequently replaced the broad leaves (modern trees for modern needs), leaving the patchwork woodland we see today. There are some great walks here on which, if you know the lesser known routes, you can find some magical places, hidden spots and some fantastic notable trees.