Ranger Study Day – Guided Tour of Windsor Great Park

A chance to explore a historic site and hear about the vision of the Head Ranger, HM King Charles III, and the estate team.

Windsor Great Park is an ancient, royal landscape which is implementing new ideas and methods of management. The operations across the 6500 ha estate includes visitor management, an enclosed deer park, commercial forestry, organic farming (beef and dairy), 3 ornamental gardens, a vineyard as well as residential and commercial lettings. Approx. 3000 ha of the estate is SSSI and either SAC or SPA, currently all assessed as favourable condition.

We will be led by knowledgeable staff and have time for discussion around changes to habitat management, climate friendly infrastructure, visitor and dog management and environmental education whilst networking with colleagues in the conservation and community engagement sector.

The visit will require a significant amount of walking on informal footpaths and uneven ground. Please bring suitable footwear and clothing to be outside all day in all weathers.

What to see throughout the day:

o Ancient, veteran and newly planted heritage trees – management of deadwood

o Wood pasture & Grade II listed parkland

o Acid grassland and species rich hay meadows

o Climate friendly adaptations to infrastructure

o Environmental education centre

Timetable

10:30-11:00am Meet at Windsor Great Park Environment Centre centre – Berks and Bucks Wildlife Trust.

Toilets / Tea / coffee / Biscuits. Please bring a travel mug!

11-11:30 Overview and Introduction to Windsor Great Park

11:30 – 13:30 Walking tour of parts of Windsor Great Park – led by Des Sussex, The Crown Estate Conservation and Biodiversity Manager.

13:15 – 14:15 Lunch – Bring your own packed lunches and outdoor clothing for a picnic

14:15 – 15:15 Further explorations of Windsor Great Park

This event is kindly organised by The Land Trust and The Crown Estate, working in partnership with the Countryside Management Association.