Volunteering

Friday, 18th July 2025   Hotel Field - Oxleas Wood   Returning to continue our activities in and around Hotel Field became a priority as...

Ten volunteers joined us in Castle Wood rose garden on Sunday 20th July to deadhead roses, weed, and clear the steps.

Perfect timing - plants were delivered just in time for our Saturday Woodland Conservation Session (SHWWP).

Today’s volunteer session started early at 8am to avoid the forecast heat. Seven volunteers carried out selective pruning in the wildlife garden, cleared the terrace steps, and tidied the long border along the terrace walk. The phlox are newly in flower this month.

The bracken is not only spreading into the meadow itself but is swamping out valuable woodland plants on the verges.

Not only do Barclays volunteer their workforce's time but the company also donates much-needed funding funding to FOW.

How, when and why do people take a carpet into the middle of the woods?

Trimming vegetation along this long-standing informal path should reduce the number of newer ones, protecting the woodland floor.

Castle Wood Meadow is looking wonderful again and is ready for its Autumn mow.

Our volunteering session began with a call to the fire brigade after discovering a ground fire in the woods below the garden.

Volunteers came together on Saturday 14th June to clear a seasonal stream deep in the woods. Though dry in summer, the stream plays a crucial role in winter by helping manage water flow and reduce flooding — and this weekend’s work ensures it’s ready when the rains return.

Nine amazing volunteers gave 2 hours each to get the garden ready for Sunday’s celebration! We weeded, tidied and enjoyed the blooms.

31st May 2025 The Rochester & Welling Ways - Woodland and Meadow edges The weather was ideal for our monthly litter-pick along the...

30th May 2025 Castle Wood Meadow A beautiful day, 21 friendly volunteers, and another 63 hours of volunteering on and around Castle Wood...

Woodland plants need sunlight and water to grow well and spread.

Hopefully, the meadow will begin to grow more wildflowers and other ground plants after clearing the light-blocking shrubs/saplings.

Great morning in Castle Wood Rose Garden with the Friends of Oxleas Woodlands on Sat 17 May

Saturday, 10th May 2025 What could be better for the soul than to be in the woods on a beautiful sunny day with like-minded individuals...

The growth of the plants has been unbelievable this month.

There's always something unusual that has been dumped in our beautiful woodlands!