THE GARDEN OF WOODFIELD

WATCH The Garden of Woodfield video here

We often talk about Woodfield as if it’s a magical place — and that’s because it is.

Tucked away in the heart of Gower, surrounded by rolling fields and open skies, it’s a place where kindness lives in every corner and the rhythm of care never stops.

For some animals, Woodfield becomes home for life — a place where they are loved, healed, and safe. For others, it’s a final resting meadow, where for a brief but beautiful moment they are surrounded by compassion, and they know they mattered.

We vividly remember Missy — a mare who came to us with ragwort poisoning. She was only with us for twenty-four hours, but in that time she found peace. She grazed the sweetest Welsh grass, rested her head in gentle hands, and left knowing she was cared for.

Woodfield has seen every kind of weather — sun breaking through clouds, rain falling softly on green hills, the wind carrying laughter across the fields. Many coffee breaks have been shared here, many plans made, and many lives quietly changed by love, patience, and time.

The Garden of Woodfield itself is only small — a modest patch of green surrounded by the life and work of the farm — yet within its fences, so much love has taken root. It may not stretch far on a map, but its heart is vast. Every inch holds a story, every corner a memory, every season a reminder of why this place matters.

And in one sunny corner stands the old apple tree — its branches wide, its shade gentle. Hanging beneath it are the names of cherished friends who help make Woodfield what it is. Each name belongs to someone who has given their time, their heart, or their hands to keep the magic alive. Beneath the tree, apples lay scattered on the grass, waiting patiently for hungry horses and curious sheep to find them — a simple, sweet reminder that this place is shared by all. When the wind moves through the leaves, it’s as though the tree itself is thanking them — a quiet nod to the people who make this small sanctuary feel so full of life.

And when the rush of the day fades — when the people go home and the gates fall silent — the true spirit of Woodfield comes alive. The birds sing softly, the animals munch contentedly, and the air feels still and full of peace.

In those quiet moments, it’s clear what makes this place special. It isn’t just the fields or the views — it’s the feeling. The love that lingers in the air, the lives that have touched this ground, and the unspoken magic that makes Woodfield so much more than a place. It’s a promise — that every life here matters. Always.

The Legacy Tree

In the garden at Woodfield stands a very special tree — our Legacy Tree.

This tree bears the names of supporters who, over the years, have chosen to leave something in their will to Woodfield Animal Sanctuary. Each name represents a lasting act of kindness and a deep commitment to the welfare of animals in need.

The Legacy Tree is our way of honouring and remembering those whose compassion continues to make a difference long after they are gone. It stands as a living symbol of gratitude, growth, and the lifelong care their generosity helps provide.

Many of the animals at Woodfield will remain with us for decades, and some may live up to 40 years. Gifts left in wills help ensure that these animals will always have safety, security, and a place to call home.

The Legacy Tree is a quiet place of reflection within our gardens — a reminder that while lives may end, kindness and compassion can live on.

If you would like to learn more about leaving a legacy gift to Woodfield, please visit our DONATION PAGE for further information.

THE FELLOWSHIP TREE

In the garden at Woodfield stands a special apple tree known as The Fellowship Tree.

This tree bears the names of people who have gone above and beyond to support Woodfield Animal Sanctuary over the years. Fellowship is not about one single type of help — it represents extraordinary commitment in many forms.

Those honoured on the Fellowship Tree include:

• Supporters who have consistently and significantly supported us financially
• Long-standing volunteers who have given their time, dedication, and loyalty over many years
• Individuals who have offered free grazing or land, helping to secure space and safety for our rescued sheep, horses, and ponies
• People who have stood by Woodfield during difficult times, when their support truly mattered

These are the people who helped keep Woodfield going when the pressure was greatest. In very real terms, without their support, we may not still be here today.

The Fellowship Tree is our way of recognising and thanking those whose belief in our work helped shape the sanctuary it is today. It stands as a living symbol of gratitude, community, and the shared responsibility of caring for animals who needed someone to stand up for them.

GARDEN REVAMP 2024/2025

Following the passing of our founder, Robbie Bartington, in June 2024, we made the decision to thoughtfully revamp the Woodfield garden — a space that has always been deeply connected to the heart of the sanctuary.

Back in 2014, a path was laid from the house to the stable yard. Over time, and after years of constant use, this path deteriorated badly. During the winter months it became particularly muddy, making access difficult and unsafe. To protect both people and animals, we installed a new path and fencing, ensuring safe, year-round access through the garden.

The garden at Woodfield has played a significant role in the life of the sanctuary over the years. It has been a place of reflection, connection, and quiet moments amidst the daily work of caring for animals. It is also home to special features such as our Legacy Tree and Fellowship Tree, which honour the people whose kindness and support have helped shape Woodfield’s journey.

Looking after this space is about more than maintenance — it is about preserving the history, memories, and values that Woodfield was built upon. The garden is part of Robbie’s legacy, and caring for it ensures that her vision, compassion, and dedication continue to live on.

By maintaining and protecting the Woodfield garden, we are safeguarding a place that means so much to our animals, our team, and our supporters — now and for the future.