Warley Hall Wood Traditional Cache
Falling through time: Due to ongoing issues of fly tipping at the entrance to the wood, and the local authorities disputing who's responsible for rubbish removal, I've decided to archive the cache.
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Difficulty:
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Terrain:
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Size: 
(small)
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The wood is very old and rich in wildlife consisting mostly of native broadleaved trees, such as hornbeam, oak and ash. Also present are cherry, field maple, alder, birch and wild service. Prolific drifts of bluebells and wood anemone provide a breathtaking sight in Spring.
In the past the hornbeam trees in the wood were managed by coppicing. If you look carefully at one you will see it has many straight stems. This is the result of cutting (coppicing) the tree to ground level and using its ability to re-grow. The crop of wood would have been used to make parts for machines, firewood and charcoal. To ensure a constant supply of timber, coppicing was carried out regularly throughout the wood.
There is dead wood, both fallen and standing in the wood, which provides an excellent habitat for fungi, insects and insectiverous birds. The holes and crevices of dead trees provide nesting sites for birds. Many species visit or breed in the wood including nuthatch, woodpecker, jay, magpie and long-tailed tit.
A circular walk takes you around the wood. It follows the babbling, meandering Weald Brook which cuts deeply through the clay soil showing the gravelly bed. Weald Brook flows almost parallel to the M25 and crosses under the motorway at four locations. It is the main source branch of the River Ingrebourne.
Parking is available in a lay-by on the A127, beware this a very busy road so care should be taken.
Additional Hints
(Decrypt)
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Treasures
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