Countesspark Wood

Wood, Forest in Northumberland

England

Countesspark Wood

High Carry House (bastle) The ruins of the old farm at High Carry House stands a few hundred metres north of the present farm. The old farmhouse was originally a bastle which was later added to and remodelled. The walls of the bastle are 1.2m thick and built of large stones. The entrance to the ground floor is in one of the long walls, but little now remains standing of the first floor walls. Before the upper floor had totally collapsed several original features were visible, including fireplaces at both ends of the first floor. These and a number of other elements, suggest this was slightly superior to the average bastle. The building has stood roofless since at least 1970.
<span class="nowrap"><a title="http://www.keystothepast.info/article/10339/Site-Details?PRN=N7742" rel="nofollow ugc noopener" href="http://www.keystothepast.info/article/10339/Site-Details?PRN=N7742">Link</a><img style="margin-left:2px;" alt="External link" title="External link - shift click to open in new window" src="https://s1.geograph.org.uk/img/external.png" width="10" height="10"/></span> — High Carry House (bastle) Credit: Les Hull

Countesspark Wood is a picturesque woodland located in Northumberland, England. Covering an area of approximately 20 hectares, it is a popular destination for nature lovers and outdoor enthusiasts. The wood is situated near the village of Matfen, offering visitors a tranquil and peaceful environment to explore.

Countesspark Wood is characterized by its diverse range of tree species, including oak, ash, birch, and beech. The trees provide a dense canopy, creating a shady and cool atmosphere during the summer months. The forest floor is covered in a thick layer of leaf litter, which adds to the natural beauty of the woodland.

The wood is home to a variety of wildlife, making it a haven for nature enthusiasts. Visitors may spot various bird species, such as woodpeckers, owls, and warblers. Mammals like foxes, squirrels, and rabbits also inhabit the area.

Several well-maintained walking trails crisscross through the wood, offering visitors the opportunity to explore its beauty. These trails vary in length and difficulty, catering to both casual strollers and avid hikers. In addition to walking, the wood is also a popular spot for picnicking and photography.

Countesspark Wood is managed by the Forestry Commission, ensuring its preservation and conservation for future generations. The wood is open to the public throughout the year, and admission is free. It is recommended to check for any closures or restrictions before visiting, as the wood may occasionally be closed for maintenance.

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Countesspark Wood Images

Images are sourced within 2km of 55.124579/-2.2136378 or Grid Reference NY8681. Thanks to Geograph Open Source API. All images are credited.

High Carry House (bastle)

The ruins of the old farm at High Carry House stands a few hundred metres north of the present farm. The old farmhouse was originally a bastle which was later added to and remodelled. The walls of the bastle are 1.2m thick and built of large stones. The entrance to the ground floor is in one of the long walls, but little now remains standing of the first floor walls. Before the upper floor had totally collapsed several original features were visible, including fireplaces at both ends of the first floor. These and a number of other elements, suggest this was slightly superior to the average bastle. The building has stood roofless since at least 1970. Link

Les Hull

Devil's Leap jutting into the River North Tyne

Les Hull

New Surface on the path of the Old Border Counties Railway

Access for farm vehicles? Path to make it easier to access fishing spots on the River North Tyne? It doesn't Follow the River Tyne Trail. Very intriguing.

Les Hull

Bridgeford Island, River North Tyne

Les Hull

Disused Railway Line at Redesmouth

Line from West Wood Burn

Les Hull

Platelayer's Hut, Wannie Line near Redesmouth

Les Hull

Interior of Platelayer's Hut, Wannie Line near Redesmouth

Les Hull

River Rede from Rede Bridge

Les Hull

Wood Cottage

A public footpath formerly ran down the drive past the house but has been diverted recently (see NY8780 : Diverted footpath at Wood Cottage).

Oliver Dixon

Diverted footpath at Wood Cottage

The public footpath across the valleys of the Heugh Burn and Blackbog Burn has recently been diverted away from the side of Wood Cottage (NY8780 : Wood Cottage).

Oliver Dixon