In this magisterial study, matched by numerous informative and evocative illustrations, the author begins by disposing of the myth that in prehistoric times Britain was swathed in a virtually impenetrable wildwood. In fact, from the earliest times woodland has been manipulated and transformed. The author first looks at landmark trees, then examines ancient trees and hedgerows before charting the early development of trees in the park and then later parkland and forestry. He describes too the life of the men of the forest over the centuries and probes the important subject of 'Woodlands of the Mind'.