Milltown and Lantyan Woods, Lostwithiel

Acquisition of two ancient woodlands: 33ha. Milltown and Lantyan woods lie on the western side of the upper River Fowey valley south of Lostwithiel and slopes steeply from the upper agricultural land down to the tidal reaches of the river. The woodland was historically managed under an irregular coppice regime and more latterly in patchy felling, removal of larger trees all of which has created a very diverse size, species and age structure. There are reports of charcoal hearths within the wood and just outside the property at the north-eastern corner there is a small limekiln. This and a history of wooden boat/ship building on the river would suggest a regular management for timber and charcoal. Most of the stored coppice present is of oak, but very large stools of sweet chestnut, ash and sycamore are also present. Standing as it does on rich clay loams the soils have a tendency to be wet where water is retained, but offers good growing conditions to a wide range of ground flora with localised patches of bluebells and ransoms, which are particularly good in April and May.