Kilminorth Wood is the largest area of western oak woodland in this part of the region and is typical of the valley side woodlands that form the familiar wooded backdrop to the south coast of Cornwall. Running along the West Looe River valley, the wood is classified as ancient woodland, having been wooded since, at least 1600AD. Ancient woodland is often referred to as the UK's equivalent of the rainforest - a rare and depleted landscape. Which is why the Friends of Kilminorth Woods believe it is important to protect this site for the benefit of the wildlife that lives there and the people that enjoy it as a local nature reserve.