グレートミルトンの天然記念物・トップ13

In 2012, Lisa Kuppler (Frankfurter Allgemeine Sonntagszeitung) paid tribute to the writer J.R.R. TOLKIEN (1892 to 1973), who invented a fictional world called Middle Earth inhabited by 'hobbits', with the words: "It is this complex creation of an entire world that makes 'The Lord of the Rings' the original text of the fantasy genre." Two decades earlier - on the occasion of his 100th birthday - a bench and two trees were dedicated to him here, in Oxford's university park. Tolkien's most popular work to date includes the volumes: "The Fellowship of the Ring" (Volume 1); "The Two Towers" (Volume 2); "The Return of the King" (Volume 3). Many people may not have read his books, but they know the film version of this great myth.

It is a fantastic hide with views over the fields & ponds. DOGs are NOT allowed. This also means that you cannot use the direct footpath towards Beckley if you have a DOG. Instead you have to take the path via the RSPB car park, which adds 2k to the walk if you go back to the footpath, rather than follow the road up to the Abingdon Arms at Beckley

The Wetlands Watch lookout and viewing screens are especially great to visit in the autumn and winter months when large numbers of wildfowl and waders are spotted on the floodplains.

Tipi in the woods, amazing woodland

In 1992, to commemorate the centenary of Tolkien’s birth, the Tolkien Society and the Mythopoeic Society organised held a special collection for the installation of a memorial bench and planting of two trees in University Parks. The trees represent Laurelin (a false acacia) and Telperion (a silver maple) from The Silmarillion.

Excellent views, Red Kites soaring around everywhere.

Incredible views from this national trust area....also free parking

These things are best seen from a distance.