East Wood

Wood, Forest in Northumberland

England

East Wood

Alpacas grazing at Wood Hall farm They seem happy here! — Alpacas grazing at Wood Hall farm Credit: Russel Wills

East Wood is a small village located in the county of Northumberland, England. Situated in the northeastern part of the country, it is nestled within a picturesque forest area known for its natural beauty and tranquility. The village is surrounded by lush greenery, towering trees, and an abundance of wildlife, making it an ideal destination for nature enthusiasts and those seeking a peaceful retreat.

The woodlands of East Wood are well-preserved and offer a diverse range of flora and fauna. The forest is home to various species of birds, mammals, and insects, making it a haven for birdwatchers and wildlife photographers. Visitors can explore the numerous walking trails that wind through the woods, providing an opportunity to immerse themselves in the serenity of the surroundings.

Despite its remote location, East Wood is not far from the town of Alnwick, which offers amenities such as shops, restaurants, and accommodation options for those looking to stay nearby. The village itself has a small community, with a handful of houses and a local pub that serves as a meeting point for residents and visitors alike.

The area is also rich in historical significance, with several ancient ruins and archaeological sites scattered throughout the forest. These remnants of the past provide a glimpse into the region's rich history and offer a fascinating insight into the lives of those who once inhabited the area.

Overall, East Wood, Northumberland, is a hidden gem for nature lovers, offering a peaceful escape from the hustle and bustle of city life. With its stunning woodlands, abundant wildlife, and historical charm, it is a place that truly captures the essence of Northumberland's natural beauty.

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East Wood Images

Images are sourced within 2km of 55.33138/-2.1006618 or Grid Reference NT9304. Thanks to Geograph Open Source API. All images are credited.

Alpacas grazing at Wood Hall farm

They seem happy here!

Russel Wills

A hembra and a cria (Mum and baby alpaca)

In a paddock near Sharperton on the River Coquet.

Russel Wills

Road sign casualty of Storm Arwen

But the post looks pretty rusty too! Alpacas over the fence.

Russel Wills

The approach to Harbottle Castle

From the neat drystone walled car park.

Russel Wills

Harbottle Castle

Ramparts around the outer bailey.

Russel Wills

Harbottle Castle - the ruined gateway

Looking down on some dressed masonry at the gateway. The castle has been quarried for much of its stone.

Russel Wills

Looking down on the former Presbyterian Church

From Harbottle Castle.

Russel Wills

The Sad Castle Stone

In the neat drystone walled carpark for Harbottle Castle is a 'new' standing stone. On it is carved a poem by local schoolgirl Felicity Lane: The Sad Castle Who Made me/Into a ruin/like an old city? Was it the soldiers who rode out on horseback? Was it my old enemy the Scots? Or was it those Border Reivers? Perhaps it was just the centuries passing. Felicity Lance It was carved into the stone by local stonemason David Edwick.

Russel Wills

Windfall due to the Storm Arwen

The timber falling across the road cut the village off for days. It brought the villagers out with their chainsaws.

Russel Wills

Storm Arwen destruction at Harbottle Wood

Just a sample of the devastation wrought by Storm Arwen. Localised examples like this can be seen in many parts of this forest.

Leanmeanmo

Same storm, different car park

Forestry England's car parks seem to have been particularly badly hit by Storm Arwen. Three months on, this one at Harbottle has been partially cleared although the evidence of the impact is still clearly visible. NU0809 : Stating the obvious NT9502 : Hope the picnic tables are alright

Leanmeanmo

Storm Arwen destruction at West Wood, Harbottle

Interestingly, this wood, like several others, sustained much more damage nearer the valley floor than at its higher sections. Presumably this must be due to the Venturi Effect, where the wind from the north, having had a long 'fetch' across open land over Alwinton, funnelled down at lower levels, increasing its speed.

Leanmeanmo

Storm Arwen demolition of woods boundary

Storm Arwen damage at the point where the West Wood car park path leads on to the open moor.

Leanmeanmo

Destruction of Ramshaugh Woods

On November 26th/27th 2021 Storm Arwen slammed across the UK, with 100 mile an hour winds. One of the areas worst hit was Northumberland, including Rothbury and Coquetdale, where fallen trees across the valley left many without power and water for nearly a week. The Ramshaugh Woods - a diverse range of woodland including the Devil’s Elbow, the Fairy Wood, the Birch Wood and the Top End - was flattened, with almost 70% of mature trees torn down, broken or uprooted. We are raising £50,000 to make this diverse stretch of woodland safe for community access again and to save as much of the viable timber as possible. The sign links to Link