Rewilding project in the Cotswolds
Rewilding & Sustainability at Calcot & Spa
Green shoots....
We are blessed in this part of the Cotswold's to be surrounded by an abundance of nature and wonderful open spaces - right on our own green doorstep (of over 220 acres) over a period of the last 25 years slowly nature has been given the space to "rewild" through wildflower planting and organic farming practices. More recently in 2012 the planting of over 21,930 native trees and the creation of a new woodland area brought excited news of an increasing number of rare and endangered farmland birds spotted within our grounds as well as an abundance of butterflies, moths and wildflowers.
January 2024 we welcomed our newest guests....a herd of Belted Galloways as part of our ongoing partnership with National Trust, Stroud Landscape Project- affectionately known as "Belties" these cows have become a popular feature across the Cotswold landscape. Acting as natural lawnmowers they’re experts at grazing areas that other livestock find less appetising. Returning to Calcot in December to continue their winter grazing.
Meet our rewilding champion
As the nature around us has been given the space to flourish, our Groundsman Steve and the Calcot team continue their mission to enhance the project further by creating and sustaining this opportunity for a better connection of the wildlife on our doorstep and to encourage our guests to explore and enjoy our wild space.
What's The Buzz?
Our five hives of beautiful Chew Valley bees enjoy the abundance of wild flowers and hedgerow to feed on throughout the summer months on our nature trail surrounding Calcot. In September we were absolutely delighted with our second honey harvest - our wonderful bees produced the most delicious Calcot honey... pure autumn gold!
Our Wildlife
As winter settles over our rewilded 220 acres, Calcot becomes a haven not just for human guests, but for an array of wildlife seeking refuge from the harsher elements. The crisp, frosty mornings and serene snowy landscapes bring a unique charm to our sanctuary – and some special visitors too.
Our nature enthusiasts have observed this month:
Fieldfares, Redwings, and Brambling foraging among the winter berries; majestic raptors like Red Kites, Kestrels, a male Goshawk and our Barn owls at dusk patrolling the frosty fields. For those of us who might not recognize a winter call or silhouette, we turn to the Merlin app or woodlandtrust.org.uk for help in identifying the wonders we spot or hear. Book onto our next Dusk Walk 18th January to learn more:
