The extensive woodlands include Roeburndale Woods grade 1 Site of Special Scientific Interest and many smaller Biological Heritage sites. Historically they were managed as coppice with standards and used for charcoal, turnery, swill oak baskets, Lancashire clogs from alder, besom birch brushes, fence posts and riven oak beams. They are rich in unusual wild flowers, ferns, and fungi. They contain many native species of trees including the rare small leaved lime.	[ Bambi on the Shave Horse ]
The woodlands were part of an active coppice rotation around 80 years ago. This coppice is now derelict with many of the stools struggling for light and consequently have some rotten trunks. These are good for the insects and insect feeding birds.	[ The Charcoal Kiln ]
The woods are used for teaching National Vegetation Classification and also make an excellent place to observe and learn from nature. The intricate patterns and interactions of plants and animals act as the background for teaching Permaculture. At the same time as starting to manage the woodlands for wildlife we try to use the timber and small wood products to develop local sustainable crafts. Over recent years we have had resident bodgers (pole lathe chair makers), swillers (oak basket makers), yurt makers (Mongolian type circular tents which use small ash, hazel or willow poles), and some charcoal production. Currently Bambi is working on developing artistic rustic chairs.
Timber Products Click to download a PDF document outlining details of local hardwood usually available at Middlewood Trust and Backsbottom Farm.
Fruit trees Click to download a PDF document giving details of fruit trees currently being grown at Middlewood Trust and Backsbottom Farm.