Introducing a national research woodland

Paradise Wood is a national research woodland dedicated to the improvementof hardwood tree species for increased timber productivity.  The first trees were planted in 1993 on former arable land, known in medieval times as ‘Paradise Field’.  Around 60,000 trees have been planted so far.

The Earth Trust, in collaboration with other organisations, has established a number of forestry trials in Paradise Wood, which have evolved to become the largest collection of hardwood forestry trials in Britain.  We have selected five species to include in our tree breeding program:  ash, beech, cherry, oak and walnut.  We also undertake additional research into the environmental and economic aspects of commercial broadleaved forestry.

Why the need for forestry research?

Britain imports far more hardwood than it grows.  It is important that the UK is able to provide an inexpensive, home-grown alternative to tropical hardwoods.

There are also a number of non-research plantings, including shelter belts and conservation areas that comprise a wide variety of tree and shrub species.  These provide long-term benefits to wildlife and enhance the local landscape. 

Find out more about our forestry research by exploring the following pages: 

Tree breeding | Broadleaved trees | Species research |