History of the Forest

Alice Holt Forest has been wooded since the last Ice Age, with evidence of human activity dating back to the Iron Age. The forest was once part of a much larger ancient woodland that covered much of southern England.

During the medieval period, the forest was a royal hunting ground. The name "Alice Holt" is thought to derive from "Aelfsige's Holt", referring to an Anglo-Saxon landowner.

Ecology

The forest covers approximately 850 hectares (2,100 acres) of predominantly oak and conifer woodland. It's home to a rich variety of wildlife including:

• Roe deer and fallow deer
• Badgers and foxes
• Over 60 species of birds including woodpeckers and nightjars
• Numerous butterfly and moth species

Forest Management

The forest is managed by Forestry England with a focus on sustainable timber production, wildlife conservation, and public recreation. The mix of native broadleaved trees and conifers creates diverse habitats.