Cherry Tree Wood facts for kids
Cherry Tree Wood is a lovely 5.3-hectare park located in East Finchley, a part of the London Borough of Barnet. It's a special place for nature, recognized as a Site of Local Importance for Nature Conservation. Right across from East Finchley Underground station, this park offers a mix of peaceful woodland and open grassy areas. You can also find fun things like a playground, tennis courts, a cozy cafe, and public toilets here.
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A Look Back in Time
Cherry Tree Wood has a very long history, possibly even going back to prehistoric times! Long, long ago, around 50 AD to 160 AD, the wood in this area might have provided fuel for nearby Roman kilns. These kilns were like big ovens used to make pottery or bricks.
From Hunting Grounds to Public Park
The first time this wood was written about was in the 13th century. Back then, it was used as hunting grounds by the Bishop of London. It's a small piece left over from a much bigger medieval forest called Finchley Wood. This large forest was even shown on an old map from 1754 by John Rocque.
Later, the wood was known as Dirthouse Wood. This was because horse manure and other natural waste from London's streets were brought to a place called the Dirthouse. This Dirthouse is now the White Lion pub, right next to East Finchley Station. This material was used as natural fertilizer for hay meadows nearby.
In 1914, the Finchley Council bought the wood. They purchased it from the Ecclesiastical Commissioners, who managed church property. The council wanted to turn it into a public park for everyone to enjoy.
Nature and Wildlife
Before it became a public park, the hornbeam trees in the wood were regularly cut back. This was done every few years to provide wood for making charcoal. However, the oak trees were allowed to grow very tall to be used for timber.
Trees and Plants
Now, the practice of cutting back trees, called coppicing, has stopped. Because of this, the hornbeam trees have grown very tall and spread out. This has made the wood much more shaded.
In the spring, you can find beautiful wood anemone flowers. These are ancient plants, meaning they have been growing in this wood for a very long time.
Amazing Animals
Cherry Tree Wood is also home to some interesting birds. You can often spot a nuthatch, which is a small bird known for climbing down trees headfirst. The great spotted woodpecker is also a common sight, tapping on trees to find insects.
Park Features
Mutton Brook, a small stream, actually starts its journey right here in Cherry Tree Wood. The park is also part of the Capital Ring, which is a long walking route around London. This section of the Capital Ring connects Hendon and Highgate.
Cherry Tree Wood offers a great space for both nature and recreation. It's a perfect spot for a walk, a game of tennis, or for kids to play.
