Most parkland today is the product of several phases of design over several centuries. Some originated as, and retain elements of, medieval deer parks, others retain remnants of the pre-park agricultural landscape and some contain scheduled monuments and other archaeological features.
In most cases, individual historical phases co-exist on the same site, and vestigial phases often require expert analysis for correct identification. Past stewardship can help inform their future conservation.
English Heritage guidance
English Heritage has produced a leaflet designed to help farmers, land managers and farm advisers identify historic parkland features and ensure their conservation through appropriate management. It also offers guidance on finding out more about surviving parkland and sources of advice on both conservation and grant aid for restoration.
A synopsis on history of parkland design and characteristic features is also given in Understanding Historic Parkland Designs.
The Landscape Advice Note on the The Treatment of Dead Wood in Historic Parks and Gardens looks at how dead wood habitats can be integrated with the landscape design aesthetics of these sites.
Estimating ages of trees
Two online publications provide advice on estimating the ages of trees:
