Thistle & Birch Forestry

18/02/2026

If you’re planning a trip to Forest this half term, please park respectfully and responsibly. 🌳

We know how much people love visiting the forest, but it’s a working forest, and we need to keep access clear for vehicles and contractors. 🚛

Please help us by avoiding blocking gateways and access points when parking.

👉 Before you leave your car, think about whether a much larger vehicle could still get through.
👉 Follow all signage, including parking guidance and any trail closures or diversions.

Thank you for helping us keep the forest safe and accessible. 🙏

07/02/2026

It’s been 6 months now since starting Thistle & Birch Forestry and what an amazing time it’s been! We’ve done some amazing work in that time including big felling, exciting climbs, conservation and riparian work, tree safety, hiking trail restoration, storm damage clearance and one of my personal favourites Osprey ringing.

In July last year myself and Ed were invited back to an Osprey nest that we built in 2023. The nest not only had a nesting pair of Ospreys but also 2 freshly hatched chicks. With the help of a qualified bird handler we climbed up to the nest to ring the chicks and take measurements to help better understand the progress and health of the birds. This was a moment that we will never forget and reminded us how amazing the line of work we are in really is. I’m also happy to report that both chicks were strong, healthy and have now fledged and made their long journey south.

Thank you to everyone who has supported us on this journey. We cannot wait to see what the next 6 months will bring and we look forward to many more years of doing what we love.

Thistle & Birch Forestry

18/08/2025

17/07/2025

Throwback to doing some storm clear up for after storm Darragh. Here’s Ed sectioning down the remnants of a snapped out Pine to make the area safe for groups to enjoy!

14/07/2025

A small selection of the Elm planks that we have for sale after milling last week. Various shapes, sizes and thicknesses available at different prices. The trees were standing dead wood for 18months+ so are part seasoned but will need storing for a little bit longer for use in furniture and construction. Please feel free to get in touch if you have any questions or would like to arrange a viewing.

13/07/2025

Big thank you to Olive Branch Tree Services for helping provide the stunning Elm we’ve been milling this week. We look forward to seeing what this timber becomes in the future!