Woodland ponds

There are several natural springs to be found on Thistledown farm, two of which feature a hand-carved stone trough and culvert, channelling the water down into the Woodchester valley, and have been dated back to Roman times. Today, the main spring still supplies local residents and it will also provide the water for the Thistledown centre and its visitors.

The availability of water was a key requirement for ancient settlements and a recreation of the Roman spring area will be reconstructed at Thistledown to draw attention to the effort needed to secure water sources and the endeavours of early settlers to do so.

There are also two small ponds which have been created to form new habitats and enhance the dappled woodland. Study groups will be invited to monitor the development of pond life and new vegetation that establishes itself there.