Owning a woodland

Most SWA members own their woodlands. Some of these form part of farms or estates, while others have been inherited. However the majority of owners have bought small woods for leisure, firewood, conservation, timber production, or just the peace and quiet. The average size of woodlands owned or managed by SWA members is between 5 and 10ha.  We are often asked how big is a small woodland - our reply is that it depends on your objectives!

The demand for individual woodlands that are small enough to be managed effectively by a few people has risen considerably in the last 10 years. Prices have risen accordingly.

What you can do with woodland you buy is heavily regulated by local authorities and other agencies. You may need permission for working on trees and don't assume you can erect a building, however modest. You may need to apply for change of use if you intend to undertake anything other than forestry.

But those that take on a woodland are invariably smitten by their relationship with trees, plants and wildlife. Most discover a joy in the physical therapy of improving unloved woods, watching trees flourishing and a wider range of flora and fauna returning to their woods.

Further information

Group ownership
Community woodlands
Insurance
Grants
Woodland history
Certification
Woodland management
Planning permission
Employing woodland workers
Mapping a woodland
Contractors and consultants
Solicitors
Security and vandalism
How SWA can help