Rendlesham Forest

Rendlesham Forest is a large mixed woodland in Suffolk, covering 1,500 hectares. It lies across several parishes including Bromeswell, Eyke and Capel St Andrew. The forest forms part of the Sandlings Forest Site of Special Scientific Interest. In 1943 a large area was cleared to build RAF Woodbridge nearby. Forestry England manages the land with paths for walkers, cyclists and campers. The forest is best known for the Rendlesham Forest incident of 1980. American servicemen stationed at RAF Woodbridge reported strange lights and unexplained marks in the woods. The case became one of Britain’s most famous UFO sightings. Investigations continue to this day, drawing visitors interested in the mystery. Inside the forest visitors find wide gravel tracks and narrower footpaths winding through tall pines and oaks. Clearings reveal open heathland dotted with heather. The tracks link to the nearby Butley River, offering quiet spots to rest. Camping areas provide simple facilities for overnight stays. The landscape changes from dense woodland to open grassland, giving a varied walk in every season.