Hunting Raven presents… Julian Hight: Britain’s Ancient Forest

An evening of talk and original music celebrating the launch of Julian Hight’s stunning new book, Britain’s Ancient Forest: Legacy and Lore.

Just what were Britain’s forests, how how did they develop, and what remains of them?

Join us for a magical evening with author Julian Hight as he weaves the story of Britain’s ancient forests and woodlands, and plays specially written music following the forest through the seasons.

Julian’s stunning new book, Britain’s Ancient Forest:Legacy and Lore, presents an alternative scenario to the commonly held view that Britain was blanketed in dense woodland. Instead it presents Britain as a patchwork mosaic not only of thick woods, but of open grazed wood-pasture, grass, heath, marsh and plain.

From the wildwood, through working woodlands and royal forests, enclosed deer parks and landscaped manorial estates to modern plantation forestry and rewilding, Britain’s Ancient Forest is the little-told tale of an evolving landscape shaped by its wildlife, people and their relationship with trees – many of which survive as living links to Britain’s rich and ancient history.

This beautiful book is a lavishly-illustrated tribute to Britain’s forest, told through history, lore and its unique surviving ancient trees and is packed with archive photographs and engravings, and stunning contemporary photographs taken by the author.

Julian Hight is a highly-regarded specialist on the subject of trees. His first two books Britain’s Tree Story and World Tree Story remain perennial bestsellers at Hunting Raven. He travels widely, camera in hand, to document historic ancient trees and present regular talks, including an appearance as judge on Channel 4’s Tree of the Year. Chair of Wessex Ancient Tree Forum and verifier for the Ancient Tree Inventory, Julian launched Reviving Selwood Forest and campaigns for ancient trees and woodland.

Books will be available to buy on the night and Julian will be happy to sign them.

Please note: There is no parking (except Disabled Parking) at the venue itself. There is limited on street parking nearby, and plentiful parking in any one of the Town Centre’s public car parks just a short distance from the venue.