Reading the Forest: Identifying Trees in Winter

A winter tree identification workshop and guided woodland walk at Middle Spernal Farm, learning to recognise broadleaf species without leaves.

The Heart of England Forest hosts a two-hour winter tree identification session beginning with a 30–45 minute indoor workshop led by Volunteer Coordinator Jonathan, covering buds, bark, tree shape and branching patterns. Participants then take a guided walk through woodland around Middle Spernal, practising identification of species such as sessile oak, English oak, hornbeam and whitebeam among the Forest's 30 broadleaf species. The relaxed walk is aimed at those with no or basic tree knowledge and also touches on woodland creation and basic tree biology. Money raised supports the Heart of England Forest charity.