Idless Woods

Cornwall Information & Accommodation Guide

Idless Woods are a large area of mixed woodland, 2.8 miles in length, on the outskirts of Truro, comprising Bishop's Wood, St Clement Woods, Lord's Wood and Lady's Wood.

The woods are popular for a variety of leisure activities including walking, cycling, dog walking, orienteering and horse riding.

Pines provide a lovely fresh scent, beeches, huge larches, a collection of eucalyptus.

In springtime the woods are full of bluebells. A huge variety of fungi can be found, especially during the autumn

The woodland provides a haven for wildlife. At certain times of the year you may be lucky enough to glimpse a red or roe deer, an otter or a badger.

Archaeological features include: a large, now overgrown, Iron Age hill fort, complete with gnarled trees, at the top of the woodland; and the remains of an old gunpowder works beside the stream on the eastern boundary of the woodland.

There are many trails through the woods. The main path from the car park follows the stream and there are a number of tracks leading from it.

The stream is accessible at points along the route. Many dogs enjoy a plunge in the stream and it's a good watering hole for them as it has water all year round.

Depending on the time of the year when you visit, you should wear appropriate footwear. The track beside the stream can get particularly muddy after rain.

Large car park.

Idless Woods are Managed by the Forestry Commission.



Contribution by The Bad Bard

Idless woods are near to me
Idless woods are dear to me
One may wander from a life perturbed
And lay down not to be disturbed
Enchanted in the magic of this place
Dissolving our folly in it's kind embrace
But you only enter when you close your eyes
And let the leafy canopy wave away the skies
To drift from drowsy reverie
And melt in blissful sanctuary…
Do I still hear the distant stream
Faintly weaving through my dream?
Or the lowing herd,
A bleating sheep
As Idless draws me to her sleep



Contribution by Margaret Eley

We often walk in Idless Woods and thought you might be interested to know that in the late forties early fifties my father who worked for the Territorial Army regularly went to the woods to set up moving targets for shooting practice for the army. As children we all went with him and my mother, where we played in the woods and rode up and down on the targets while they were being set up !!! We believe that the remains of the target range is still there.


Information for Cyclists, Horse riders and Orienteering groups

Huge fire tracks and off trail paths provide great routes for cycling and horse riding.

With the exception of bridleways on the site, horse riders require a permit to ride in Idless Woods. Please contact the Forestry Commission Office on 01392 832262 for an application form.

Idless Woods have a permanent orienteering course which is run jointly with Cornwall Orienteering Club. Maps can be obtained from Penrose Outdoors in Truro.

Location:
Idless, near Truro
OS Explorer 105

Road directions to Idless Woods

Books online:
Click here to buy books online about Idless Woods

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