Viewley Wood

Wood, Forest in Northumberland

England

Viewley Wood

Glorious gorse above Embley Burn The byway descending west from Embley Fell comes off the heather moorland and immediately enters a scrubby area dominated by gorse, which is in full bloom in mid-May. As the track ahead drops closer to Embley Burn, it becomes more crowded by hawthorn and birch but still with a shrub layer of glorious gorse. — Glorious gorse above Embley Burn Credit: Andy Waddington

Viewley Wood is a picturesque woodland located in the county of Northumberland, England. Covering an area of approximately 100 hectares, it is a significant natural resource in the region. The wood is situated near the village of Viewley and is easily accessible via well-maintained footpaths.

The wood is predominantly composed of a mix of deciduous and coniferous trees, including oak, beech, birch, and pine. This diversity of tree species creates a rich and vibrant ecosystem, attracting a wide range of wildlife. Visitors to Viewley Wood can expect to encounter various bird species, such as woodpeckers, owls, and thrushes, as well as small mammals like rabbits, squirrels, and hedgehogs.

The wood is popular among nature enthusiasts and walkers due to its tranquil atmosphere and scenic beauty. The well-marked trails winding through the woodland offer visitors the opportunity to explore and appreciate the natural surroundings. In spring, the forest floor comes alive with a carpet of bluebells, creating a breathtaking sight.

Viewley Wood also serves as an important site for conservation efforts. The management of the wood focuses on maintaining and enhancing the biodiversity of the area, ensuring its long-term sustainability. Regular tree planting and maintenance activities are carried out to promote the growth of native species and create a balanced ecosystem.

Overall, Viewley Wood is a cherished natural gem in Northumberland, providing a haven for wildlife, a recreational space for visitors, and a site of ecological significance.

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Viewley Wood Images

Images are sourced within 2km of 54.893939/-2.1149225 or Grid Reference NY9255. Thanks to Geograph Open Source API. All images are credited.

Glorious gorse above Embley Burn

The byway descending west from Embley Fell comes off the heather moorland and immediately enters a scrubby area dominated by gorse, which is in full bloom in mid-May. As the track ahead drops closer to Embley Burn, it becomes more crowded by hawthorn and birch but still with a shrub layer of glorious gorse.

Andy Waddington

Byway dropping down Embley Bank

The byway descending west from Embley Fell comes off the heather moorland and immediately enters a scrubby area dominated by gorse, which is in full bloom in mid-May. Lower down as the track drops closer to Embley Burn, it becomes more crowded by hawthorn and birch but still with a shrub layer of glorious gorse.

Andy Waddington

Sheep graze above Embley

West of Slaley Forest, moorland drops down to farmland and pasture dominates. The bridleway from Embley just touches the edge of this gridsquare, offering an uninspiring view across the grazing towards the forest.

Andy Waddington

Byway into Slaley Forest

Slaley forest and the surrounding moors seem to be home to an unusual density of both bridleways and byways. Southeast of Viewley on the edge of the plantations, is a crossroads of byways, though the one heading to the south behind the photographer is limited to only two-wheeled motor vehicles, and even then, only in the drier summer months. To the north, the planting is now mature, and not the usual densely packed Sitka Spruce, but more widely spaced pines which certainly provide more opportunities for native wildlife as well as being of far greater amenity value for those who prefer open forest.

Andy Waddington

Forest track branches off byway, Slaley Forest

The forest track to the left is guarded by a closed barrier to deter those who use the byway from straying where they are not permitted. Whilst signage implies a significant overuse of the byways by motor traffic, some of them shown on the map seem to have been erased entirely on the ground. The ones that still exist seem sufficiently straight that there can be little scope for noisy rally driving, but no doubt provide sport for mindless boy racers who think it fun to go very fast in a straight line. Signs advise calling Northumbria Police if you see bad behaviour taking place, but don't bother to mention where one might find a phone box to do so.

Andy Waddington

Edward VII postbox near Turf House

It's had some TLC since 2008 - see NY9155 : Edward VII postbox near Turf House. The location of this postbox is shown in NY9155 : Daffodils, Edward VII postbox and bus shelter near Turf House.

Mike Quinn

Edward VII postbox near Turf House - royal cipher

See NY9155 : Edward VII postbox near Turf House; this postbox has been fitted (in situ) with an enlarged posting aperture.

Mike Quinn

Daffodils, Edward VII postbox and bus shelter near Turf House

Shows the location of the NY9155 : Edward VII postbox near Turf House.

Mike Quinn

East Lightside

High level farmland for these parts, the trig is at 246m.

Richard Webb

Irish bridge, Devil's Water

This Irish bridge (culverted ford) takes the road over Devil's Water, near Renny's Barn. Will acquire proper ford status after heavy rainfall.

Andrew Smith

Ford, Devil's Water, Rawgreen

There are two fords in quick succession on this rough lane. This is the deeper one, through Devil's Water.

Andrew Smith

Ford, Devil's Water, Embley

A shallow concrete ford takes the track through Devil's Water.

Andrew Smith

Mire House near Whitley Chapel

Les Hull

White Hall Chapel

Methodist Chapel dated 1871 with the usual gable-end porch flanked by round-arched windows.

Les Hull

Stone House near Hackford

This house may have been a shieling and only used in the summer months. The KeysToThe Past website suggest the possibility of the building being an 18th century house. Link

Les Hull

Redlead Mill, near Whitley Chapel

Brian Norman

Burntshield Haugh Farm

This is a good example of an early 18th century farmhouse, though it was altered in the 19th century. It is built of rubble and has a slate roof. In the southern end wall the remains of an old bread oven can still be seen.

Les Hull