The Forest of Avon is a magical mixture of green-spaces in and around Bristol - a green belt of ancient woodlands, new tree plantations, walking routes, historical sites and places of outstanding natural beauty.

For many, the word 'forest' conjures up an image of densely planted trees, stretching as far as the eye can see and perhaps a flash back to the days of wild boar and Robin Hood! In Medieval times though, the word 'forest' meant a mix of woods, heaths, farmland, wetlands, ponds and streams. There were also settlements � hamlets, villages and small towns where people lived and worked.

Today the concept of 'Community Forests' is bringing this ancient meaning of the word to life again, with England�s Community Forests having become the largest environmental initiative in England.