Ashenbank Wood

Twigs snapping underfoot. Weather dependent, the first thing that hits you at Ashenbank Wood is the stillness. Apart from branches creaking high above, the occasional knock of a woodpecker somewhere in the distance or a fellow walker passing by, there is very little to interrupt the silence.

Just half a mile from Cobham village and once part of the Cobham Hall Estate, Ashenbank covers 30 hectares. Part of the site is ancient woodland, while other areas are old wood pasture, with sweet chestnut, oak and silver birch among the trees. In autumn, leaves settle like a golden carpet underfoot; come spring, bluebells bloom beneath the canopy.

From the free car park, red waymarkers guide you through the woods, with two marked routes to follow. Some paths are surfaced, others are natural and can become slippery and muddy after rain. It is easy to spend an hour or so, though you’ll probably find yourself pausing more than expected.

There are trees here that demand it. Great trunks with deeply patterned bark rise up towards the sky. Some stand tall and proud, others fallen, slowly giving themselves back to the woodland. Benches can be found dotted along the paths, with small brass dedications to people who enjoyed the woods before.

Ashenbank has been part of local life for a very long time. Hidden amongst the trees is a Bronze Age bowl barrow, partially excavated in 1895. Much later, the woods became home to RAF personnel during the Second World War. Four bunkers survive from that period. A neighbour who grew up locally remembers playing war games around them as a boy, when they were simply part of the woods in which local children played.

Today it’s walkers and families with their dogs, and children running through the trees competing to find the best sticks. In summer, the canopy offers somewhere to escape the midday sun. In autumn, it is all about what lies beneath your feet. Combine the woods with the surrounding Cobham landscape for a longer wander.

There are no toilets or refreshments. If feeling a little peckish after all the fresh air, head into the village afterwards and find a seat at one of the local historic pubs. The Leather Bottle and The Ship Inn are the ones we return to.

Before leaving, take a moment beside one of the ancient trees. Rest a palm against its weathered trunk, look upwards and breathe in.

It is in these little moments that you remember how good it feels to simply slow down. The term ‘tree hugger’ comes to mind, but when it feels this good, we don’t mind.

Good to Know

Free parking

No toilets of refreshments

Dogs Welcome

Natural paths can be muddy and slippery when wet.

Some surfaced paths but woodland isn’t generally wheel chair accessible

Allow an hour for a gentle walk or combine with the wider Cobham landscape