Five Photographers Capture the Magic and Fragility of UK's Ancient Woodlands

Only 2.5% of the UK's woodland cover consists of ancient woodlands, which have been present since at least AD 1600, representing 13% of the total land area. Currently, 1,225 ancient woods are under threat from various factors, including development, overgrazing, air pollution, and invasive species. Joanna Vestey's photographic series delves into these ecosystems, while Neil Burnell captures the landscapes of southwest England. Jasper Goodall's Twilight's Path series portrays twisting branches and fallen leaves, conveying feelings of disorientation. Ellie Davies highlights the swift changes occurring in woodland environments. Simon Norfolk's Time Taken project chronicles seasonal transformations in Bamiyan, Afghanistan, offering a counter-narrative to conflict-driven stories. This article was authored by Emma Jacob and published on December 23, 2025.