Cragclose Wood

Wood, Forest in Northumberland

England

Cragclose Wood

Bridge, Bellingham With four segmental arches. Dated 1834, the architect John Green. Grade II listed.
It carries the B6320 over the River North Tyne.
In the foreground is Jubilee Park. — Bridge, Bellingham Credit: Stephen Richards

Cragclose Wood is a picturesque woodland located in the county of Northumberland, England. Situated near the village of Longframlington, this dense forest covers an area of approximately 150 acres. It is a popular destination for nature enthusiasts, hikers, and bird watchers due to its diverse flora and fauna.

The wood is predominantly made up of native tree species, including oak, birch, and beech, which create a vibrant and colorful canopy during the autumn months. The forest floor is carpeted with various wildflowers, such as bluebells and primroses, adding to its natural beauty.

Cragclose Wood is intersected by several well-maintained walking trails, allowing visitors to explore its enchanting surroundings. These paths offer opportunities to spot a wide range of wildlife, including red squirrels, roe deer, and various bird species, such as woodpeckers and tawny owls.

The wood is also home to a small stream that meanders through the trees, providing a peaceful and tranquil atmosphere. The sound of running water adds to the overall serenity of the woodland, making it an ideal spot for relaxation and meditation.

Cragclose Wood is well-preserved and cared for by local authorities, ensuring its natural beauty remains intact. It is accessible to the public throughout the year, with ample parking facilities available nearby. Whether it's a leisurely stroll, a picnic, or an exploration of the diverse wildlife, Cragclose Wood offers a delightful experience for nature lovers in Northumberland.

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Cragclose Wood Images

Images are sourced within 2km of 55.142758/-2.2911397 or Grid Reference NY8183. Thanks to Geograph Open Source API. All images are credited.

Bridge, Bellingham

With four segmental arches. Dated 1834, the architect John Green. Grade II listed. It carries the B6320 over the River North Tyne. In the foreground is Jubilee Park.

Stephen Richards

Gates near Bellingham

The entrance to Hesleyside, dating from the early C19th. The elaborate wrought-iron gates are flanked by piers, topped by urn finials, which are, in turn, flanked by serpentine walls culminating in square piers. Grade II listed. A sign nailed to a nearby tree tells us that, "the house has been the home of the Charlton family since 1343", and that, "the family are happy to welcome parties of visitors to the house by prior arrangement".

Stephen Richards

Hesleyside Plantations near Bellingham

Mostly beeches on show here. Presumably forestry operations are connected to the Hesleyside estate.

Stephen Richards

Parkland near Bellingham

Not looking particularly parklandish, apart from the variety of trees on show. Hard to see from this shot, but they form part of an avenue of trees which runs north from the house (Hesleyside) to the River North Tyne, only about 500 yards away. This was probably laid out in the early C18th.

Stephen Richards

Walled garden near Bellingham

C18th and presumably built as part of the Hesleyside estate. The River North Tyne is just the other side of the distant fence, and Hareshaw Common beyond that.

Stephen Richards

View from Dunterley Fell

And across Ealinghamrigg Common to Bellingham.

Stephen Richards

Farmland near Bellingham (2)

A view across apparently improved pasture to the slopes of Dunterley Fell. What looks to me, as an ignorant townie, like a bit of rusting old metal, might well be a crucial bit of farming equipment. In fact, the whole Northumbrian economy, such as it is, might depend on bits of metal like this. Or it might not.

Stephen Richards

Country road near Bellingham (5)

Looking towards Bellingham. This section of road is lined with many fine beech trees (possibly planted by the Hesleyside estate as the road is more or less on axis with the house), some of whose trunks have, to varying degrees, lost their characteristic silvery smoothness. A disease, or age, or something else?

Stephen Richards