Beech Tree Carving

Walking through a woodland clearing near Cirencester, you'll stumble upon something rather unexpected - an entire gallery carved into the living wood of ancient beech trees. It's the work of a single sculptor who's spent years transforming the forest into an open-air exhibition space, with intricate relief carvings telling stories across the bark and trunks.

The pieces range from abstract forms to figurative work, and there's real skill on display. Some carvings have weathered beautifully over time, the wood grain adding to the character, whilst others are sharp and fresh. You're essentially walking through someone's artistic life work, which gives it an oddly personal feel compared to your typical gallery.

It's brilliant for anyone who appreciates sculpture and craft - the marriage of natural material and human skill is genuinely compelling. Kids might find it interesting for twenty minutes or so, but it's really geared towards adults with patience for that sort of thing. The setting itself is lovely; the woodland around Cirencester is proper walking country.

There's no admission charge, which is generous, though the exact opening hours aren't always clear, so ring ahead. Allow an hour minimum to do it justice. If you're based at Hoburne Cotswold Holiday Park, it's well within reach for a morning visit. The nearby Cirencester Park Caravan and Motorhome Club Campsite puts you even closer. Worth combining with a walk into Cirencester itself for lunch or exploring the town's Roman heritage.