11

We're semi-frequent visitors to Rendlesham Forest, in Suffolk, England. A few years ago (probably 2008-2009), whilst walking not too far from the main car park we came across a large wooden structure roughly resembling a bird. You could climb up its back, go inside it and it had a firemans pole at one end. It wasn't anywhere near or part of the "UFO" trail and the associated games/climbing structures that are to the north west of the car park, I feel it was more to the south / south west amongst the red and blue walking trails.

On more recent trips within the last couple of years, we've been unable to find it again - despite being pretty sure we're back in the right area, there is no sign of it. Does anyone know if anything has happened to it, and if it's still there, a sure fire way to find it on a visit?

There are posts, along with the blue/red coloured walking trails, that seem to indicate "bird this way", but we followed those on a trip last year without finding it, and walking a lot further and in a different direction to what we remembered, so I'm almost sure that those posts are directing you to something else - there are a couple of RSPB sites nearby for instance.

Improve this question
2
  • 1
    Have you tried contacting the council?
    – user2766
    Mar 2, 2015 at 11:10
  • 1
    @Liam No - that's a good suggestion though. Also the Forestry Commission (it's their site). I will do so, and update back here if I find anything out!
    – James Thorpe
    Mar 2, 2015 at 11:15

2 Answers 2

Reset to default
12

Apparently it was removed due to lack of funding for repairs. Here's a link to an article about it. Here's a link to a picture for the curious. Too bad.

Improve this answer
1
  • 1
    Thanks - I'd not been able to find any info, but that article confirms my suspicions that it couldn't be maintained. Shame, since there's a bunch of newer stuff (the UFO trail I mentioned) that's been put in so they're not completely without funds. FWIW, I sent an email to the address listed on the Forestry Commission website for Rendlesham, if they reply with any other "official" info, I'll update back.
    – James Thorpe
    Mar 3, 2015 at 8:25
4

After the prompt by Liam in the comments, I got in touch with the Forestry Commission via their website - it seems they list an email contact for each site.

I received the following reply, confirming Joe's answer:

The Nightjar (wooden bird) had been repaired over many years. However, the foundations had begun to rot beyond repair; it was with some sadness that we dismantled it.

It used to be on the 'blue' walking trail - the site is easy to find as it has two benches on the edge of a clearing. In addition the years of woodchip has created something of a dome.

Improve this answer

Your Answer

By clicking “Post Your Answer”, you agree to our terms of service and acknowledge that you have read and understand our privacy policy and code of conduct.

Not the answer you're looking for? Browse other questions tagged or ask your own question.