Ancient Trees, Living Landscapes

Book excerpt: Over the last 25 years, archaeologists and historians have been increasingly aware of the importance of woodland in the developing British landscape. No one has devoted more research to this subject then Richard Muir. In this magisterial study, matched by numerous informative and evocative illustrations, the author begins by disposing of the myth that in prehistoric times Britain was swathed in a virtually impenetrable wildwood. In fact, from the earliest times woodland has been manipulated and transformed. The author looks at landmark trees, then examines ancient trees and hedgerows before charting the early development of trees in the park, and then later parkland and forestry.