Wayland Wood facts for kids
| Site of Special Scientific Interest | |
 |
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| Area of Search | Norfolk |
|---|---|
| Interest | Biological |
| Area | 31.7 hectares (78 acres) |
| Notification | 1983 |
| Location map | Magic Map |
Wayland Wood is a special forest in Norfolk, England. It covers about 31.7 hectares (which is around 78 acres). This amazing place is known as a Site of Special Scientific Interest (SSSI) because it's home to unique plants and animals. The Norfolk Wildlife Trust helps look after this important woodland.
Contents
Discover Wayland Wood's Nature
This beautiful wood is located about 1 kilometer south of Watton town. It's a protected area, meaning it's super important for nature. Wayland Wood is filled with different types of trees, making it a great place to explore.
What Trees Grow Here?
You can find many kinds of trees in Wayland Wood. Some of the most common ones are:
- Oak trees: These are strong, tall trees that can live for hundreds of years.
- Ash trees: Known for their smooth bark and strong wood.
- Hazel trees: Often grow as bushes and produce tasty nuts.
- Bird cherry trees: These trees have pretty white flowers in spring and small, dark cherries later in the year.
Rare Plants and Animals
Wayland Wood is a special home for some rare creatures and plants. You might be lucky enough to spot a golden pheasant here. These birds have bright, colorful feathers, especially the males.
The wood is also the only place in Norfolk where a rare flower called the yellow star-of-Bethlehem grows. It's a small, delicate plant with bright yellow, star-shaped flowers that appear in spring. Finding it is a real treat!
The Legend of the Babes in the Wood
Wayland Wood is famous for an old, sad story called "The Babes in the Wood." This legend has been told for hundreds of years! It's about a brother and sister who were left alone in the forest.
What Happened in the Story?
The story says that after their parents passed away, the two children were left with their uncle. He was supposed to take care of them at Griston Hall, which was near the edge of the wood. The children were set to inherit a lot of money when they grew up. However, if they didn't make it to adulthood, their uncle would get all the money instead.
Because he wanted the money, the uncle sadly left the two children alone in Wayland Wood. The legend says that the children's spirits still wander through the forest.
The Legend's Impact
The story of the Babes in the Wood became very popular. People believed it so much that in 1879, when a tree thought to be where the children were left was hit by lightning, many people visited the area. They even took pieces of the tree as souvenirs! This shows how powerful and lasting the legend of Wayland Wood is.
