Support Spitfire Forest

New woodland for wildlife, people and climate

Spitfire Forest is a new 168-hectare woodland creation project just south of Twyford near Winchester where we are seeking support to plant 300,000 trees in the winter of 2026 to 2027. Forestry England are leading England’s largest woodland creation programme and this new woodland will provide homes for wildlife and store carbon. 

We'll carefully select tree species that suit the local soil and will thrive in today’s climate, while also being resilient to future conditions as the trees grow and mature. The woodland will include a mix of broadleaf and conifer trees and include open areas to support nature and add visual interest to the landscape. It will be open to the public, and provide space for local communities to find balance, escape and adventure.  

As well as the environmental benefits, this new site reflects an important piece of local history. The Spitfire has strong connections to Hampshire. It was designed in Southampton and made its maiden flight from Eastleigh Aerodrome in 1936, just a few miles from Twyford. The name of our new forest is inspired by a remarkable local tale about a World War Two Spitfire that was rumoured to have crash landed in the area during the Battle of Britain. 

Investment from partners like you enables us to do more for communities, wildlife and nature. With your support, we will be able to plant a greater diversity of tree species, create new habitats for priority species and establish a natural haven for generations to come.