A Walk in the Woods succeeds in its purpose of inspiring readers to don boots and explore forests for themselves. A literary ramble through this inspiring tome will not only give you the opportunity to appreciate the incredible diversity and remarkable beauty of our native woodland, it will no doubt also make you want to get out there and explore a wild habitat near you that hasn't lost its timeless quality or wonderful sense of intrigue. Ranges over twenty-five different topics and provides examples from sites all over Britain, including some of Britain's most ancient and distinctive trees, all beautifully photographed in all their glory by renowned landscape photographer Archie Miles. His passion for these sites shines through the text - illustrated by beautiful photographs - which is packed with information on plant and wildlife habitats as well as the cultural history of the areas… Anyone with an interest in natural history will find much to enjoy in this new book. This magnificent book, with its superb photos and fascinating text, covers a wide range of intriguing issues over woodland in the broadest sense, both historical and modern. Delving into its pages is like opening a new route to what was once a familiar world that puts a new perspective on that world. If I had to recommend one book on trees or woodland off my bookshelves, this would be the one. Miles's lavish and lyrical landscape photography illustrates his down-to-earth text describing 46 of Britain's greatest woodland sites.

Miles offers a comprehensive study of the history of the forest, as well as further discussion on the bio-diversity of the space, inviting the reader to dive into his crisp autumnal images. It's enough to make you reach for your walking boots! Make no mistake, this is a classy book, written with an obvious passion about each and every stretch of woodland profiled, and packed with some glorious pictures. Archie Miles's photographic exploration is inspirational, and living where I do in one of the least wooded counties of the country, not a little jealous making. If you go down to the woods today with Archie Miles, you may not be in for a great surprise, but you should still find the experience a treat. Miles, a tree photographer turned tree chronicler, has produced a string of beautiful books on his favourite subject already, and here is more of the same. That is no criticism though. How could it be, when it means more sumptuous photographs, more vivid descriptions of the countryside and another chancce to share in his delight at the wonders of the woods. Stunning photos, sharply focused, half fill this book… I like books that inspire exploration of new territory - this is sure to delight many a recipient this Christmas.

Into the woods via Miles's rapturous photography and fluent prose. Miles's words, as much as his photos, make the reader want to get out among the trees. Such a fascinating account that woodland may never seem the same to many readers again to many readers, certainly myself. Lovers of walks invested with interesting facts and details as well as fine views will be glad they bought Archie Miles's book. Deciding where to rush off to first, however, will not be easy as he makes each one a tempting stroll… An essential for lovers of Britain's woodlands looking for new treasures.