Forest bathing at Maulden Wood

Maulden Wood sits on the Greensand Ridge near Clophill, about ten miles south of Bedford. It holds one of the largest and most important remnants of ancient woodland in Bedfordshire, and it grows across two very different soils, sandy greensand and heavier glacial boulder clay, which is why the plants and wildlife are so varied. The grassy areas in the middle of the wood and at its northern end are protected as Sites of Special Scientific Interest.

Most people start from the car park just off the A6, and it is worth walking a little way in before you slow down. Forestry England's rides and paths are shared with cyclists and horse riders, so step off onto a quieter side path or sit by one of the grassy glades if you want to stay put for a while. Spring is the season for woodland flowers and birdsong, and summer brings butterflies to the open rides. The wood is open from dawn until dusk every day of the year.