The Bath area is rich in both native and introduced tree species. From the beech hangers on the hills to the ancient oaks in valley bottoms, and from riverside willows to hedgerow hawthorns, our walks take us through diverse woodland habitats.
This section provides identification guides for trees commonly encountered on our rambles, including seasonal identification tips for when trees are in leaf, flower, or showing their winter silhouettes.
IDENTIFYING TREES IN WINTER
ASH
The common ash is the third most common tree in the UK, an ash tree can live for 400 years and can reach a height of 35m. In late January sooty buds appear, one at the end of the characteristically upturned twigs and then in pairs further down. They also have small green and purple clustered flowers at this time.
BEECH
The Beech tree is one of the biggest woodland trees in the UK. The torpedo shaped buds appear in February and grow out from the twigs at an angle.
ALDER
The Alder is a smallish tree and is commonly found near rivers and streams. Alder is monoecious which means the same tree will produce both male and female flowers.
PLANE
The London Plane is very commonly found in towns and cities as it deals well with pollution. It can grow to 35m tall and has a distinctive ‘camouflage’ pattern bark.
Common Tree Habitats
- Ancient Woodlands: Oak, ash, beech, field maple
- Riverbanks: Willow, alder, poplar
- Hedgerows: Hawthorn, blackthorn, elder, holly
- Hills and Downs: Beech, yew, whitebeam
- Parkland: Sweet chestnut, lime, sycamore
More detailed tree identification guides will be added as we document additional trees encountered on our walks.