Hawkwood Woodland Sanctuary, Stroud
Description
Tucked away in the enchanting woodland surrounding Hawkwood sits the iconic structure of the Woodland Sanctuary, a tranquil space for quiet contemplation in the spirit of silence.
Hawkwood was established in 1948 and is a vibrant centre for future thinking, the arts, personal and spiritual development and creative exploration. The 42 acres of sustainably managed land include an organic farm, outdoor classroom, 10 acres of woodland, a walled garden, natural spring, ponds and wetlands, beehives and labyrinth. From the house forecourt there are far-reaching views to the Southwest including the Forest of Dean and South Wales.
The Woodland Sanctuary can be used by anyone but is sometimes used for organised groups so it is best to check before your visit. If you'd like to call in on the off-chance, just go to Reception where they can tell you if it's free and can supply you with the combination code for the lock. (Reception hours are 9 am – 5.30 pm and at other times, instructions on how to find the duty manager are displayed on the door.)
Location
Hawkwood, Painswick Old Road, Stroud, Gloucestershire, GL6 7QW, United Kingdom
Directions
Grid ref: 51°45'26.5"N 2°12'33.2"W
(please contact them if you need more detailed instructions)
By car: From the west and north, take Exit 13 off the M5 and follow signs to Stroud centre. From the east, take Exit 15 off the M4 and follow the A419 past Cirencester to Stroud. If coming from the Oxford area, follow the A429 or B4425 off the A40 to Cirencester. Follow the A419 from Cirencester as above. From Stroud centre, follow the A46, then the Painswick Old Road (which is signposted ‘to Wick St.').
By public transport: By train or bus - take a taxi from the Stroud train or bus station (approx. 2 miles). By Plane - the closest airports are Bristol, Birmingham and Heathrow. Take a bus/train from Bristol, Birmingham or Heathrow to Stroud.
On foot: Walking from Stroud centre takes approximately half an hour. There are footpaths as an alternative to the lane. Please consult ordnance survey map. Hawkwood is not far from The Cotswold Way and The Wysis Way.
Facilities
Facilities: Regrettably, this is not accessible for wheelchair users, unless with help as the woodland paths are undulating and with uneven surface. There are toilet facilities in the house or converted stables - please ask Reception for directions. There is a compost toilet in the woodland near the walled garden.
There are ornamental gardens around the house and a half-walled garden and orchard which is accessible to some degree, but as it is sited on a hill wheelchair users would need help to access the garden.
Hot drinks (by donation) may be available in the dining room, depending on time of day. Natural spring water can be drawn (at your own risk) in the lower garden. Accommodation can be arranged (email info@hawkwoodcollege.co.uk or ring 01453 759034) and quiet days for individuals or group can be arranged.
Hospitaller/Contact Person
Hawkwood,
Painswick Old Road
Stroud
GL6 7QW
Tel: 01453 779834
Email:
Web Link
http://www.hawkwoodcollege.co.uk