High Spencycroft Plantation

Wood, Forest in Cumberland Eden

England

High Spencycroft Plantation

Station Road (A686) heading north out of Alston The road is climbing to cross Whitfield Moor passing a minor road on the left giving access to the railway station which now operates as a narrow gauge tourist attraction. The low walls at the side of the road are parapets of a bridge over the River Nent.
The Fuchs crane at the side of the road looks rather shabby. — Station Road (A686) heading north out of Alston Credit: Trevor Littlewood

High Spencycroft Plantation is a vast wooded area located in Cumberland, a county in the northwest of England. Spanning over several hundred acres, the plantation is known for its dense forest and diverse range of plant and animal species. It is situated near the village of Spencycroft and is a popular destination for nature enthusiasts and hikers.

The plantation is characterized by its tall and majestic trees, predominantly oak, beech, and pine. These trees provide a dense canopy, creating a serene and shaded environment within. The forest floor is covered in a thick layer of moss and fallen leaves, adding to its natural beauty.

High Spencycroft Plantation is home to a wide variety of wildlife. Visitors can spot numerous bird species, including woodpeckers, owls, and various songbirds. Squirrels, rabbits, and deer are also commonly seen within the plantation, making it a haven for animal lovers and photographers.

Several well-marked trails crisscross the plantation, offering visitors the opportunity to explore its natural wonders. These trails vary in difficulty, catering to both casual walkers and avid hikers. Along the way, there are several lookout points where visitors can admire panoramic views of the surrounding countryside.

The plantation is managed by the local forestry commission, ensuring its conservation and protection. The commission also organizes educational programs and events to promote awareness and appreciation of the area's natural heritage.

Overall, High Spencycroft Plantation in Cumberland is a picturesque woodland retreat that offers a tranquil escape from the hustle and bustle of daily life. Its natural beauty, diverse wildlife, and well-maintained trails make it a must-visit destination for nature lovers and outdoor enthusiasts.

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High Spencycroft Plantation Images

Images are sourced within 2km of 54.821579/-2.4335619 or Grid Reference NY7247. Thanks to Geograph Open Source API. All images are credited.

Station Road (A686) heading north out of Alston

The road is climbing to cross Whitfield Moor passing a minor road on the left giving access to the railway station which now operates as a narrow gauge tourist attraction. The low walls at the side of the road are parapets of a bridge over the River Nent. The Fuchs crane at the side of the road looks rather shabby.

Trevor Littlewood

Buildings on east side of A686

The buildings are on the east side of the A686 in Alston. The right part of the stone building was for many years the Central Cafe and is well-remembered as the refreshment stop for the Wrights Brothers bus and coach service which ran (and hopefully will run again), between Newcastle and Keswick. It has been in a deteriorating state since its closure some decades ago. The white painted building is part of Henderson's Garage.

Trevor Littlewood

Building of the South Tynedale Railway

The building is adjacent to the line of the narrow gauge railway and has lines running into it so it's clearly used as a workshop or a storage facility for rolling stock. The South Tyne Trail which runs alongside the railway crosses from the east side to the west side of the line at the camera location.

Trevor Littlewood

Gentle curve along South Tynedale Railway

The narrow gauge railway en route for Alston which lies around 1.5 km. ahead.

Trevor Littlewood

Carriage sidings, Alston

The carriage sidings at the South Tynedale Railway close to the station of the narrow gauge railway.

Trevor Littlewood

Green Dragon at Alston Station

The Green Dragon being prepared for the 1300 hrs service from Alston Station to Slaggyford on the South Tynedale Railway. This photograph was taken during the Coronavirus (COVID-19) pandemic of 2020/21.

James T M Towill

Through an arch of the Tyne Bridge

Looking upstream along the South Tyne from below the bridge that carries the A686.

Gordon Hatton

Alston Fire Station

Housed in the former Grammar School which has a date of 1828 above the small red door.

Gordon Hatton

Friends Meeting House, Alston

Quakerism in Alston can be traced back as far as 1668. This meeting house dates from 1732 with alterations in 1762-4.

Gordon Hatton

Alston Post Office

Situated in the centre of this tiny hill town, which at the time this photograph was taken had road works right in the middle of the main street. No traffic could get through and there were lengthy detours.

Gordon Hatton

South Tyne River

The South Tyne, a mile upstream from Alston.

Gordon Hatton

River South Tyne at the northern edge of Alston

This is the view of the river seen by walkers leaving Alston to the north on the South Tyne Trail.

Clive Nicholson

The River Tyne Trail adjacent to South Tynedale Railway

The South Tynedale Railway runs for 5 miles in this magnificent valley and is run by the South Tynedale Railway Preservation Society. The valley also has other famous walking trails, The Pennine Way, A Pennine Journey and Isaac's Tea Trail.

Clive Nicholson