Birk Plantation

Wood, Forest in Northumberland

England

Birk Plantation

Tamworth Reds I never knew that pigs could set up quite the cacophonous racket that these two (together with a couple of others) did when they saw us and presumably thought that food  was on the way!
Tamworth Reds Credit: Oliver Dixon

Birk Plantation is a picturesque woodland located in Northumberland, England. Covering an area of approximately 100 acres, it is a place of natural beauty and tranquility. The plantation is situated within the larger Birk Estate, which has a long and rich history dating back to the 17th century.

The woodland is characterized by a diverse range of trees, including oak, beech, birch, and pine. These majestic trees provide a habitat for a variety of wildlife, such as deer, foxes, squirrels, and numerous bird species, making it a haven for nature enthusiasts and birdwatchers.

Birk Plantation offers visitors the opportunity to explore its network of well-maintained walking trails that meander through the woods. These trails provide a glimpse into the plantation's rich heritage, with remnants of ancient boundary walls and stone structures scattered throughout the forest.

In addition to its natural beauty, Birk Plantation also boasts a small lake, which adds to the charm of the landscape. The lake is home to a variety of aquatic plants and attracts waterfowl, creating a peaceful and idyllic setting.

The plantation is open to the public throughout the year, allowing visitors to experience the changing seasons and witness the vibrant colors of autumn or the blooming wildflowers in spring. With its serene ambiance and stunning natural surroundings, Birk Plantation is a hidden gem in Northumberland, offering a peaceful retreat for those seeking solace in nature.

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Birk Plantation Images

Images are sourced within 2km of 54.909463/-2.0990733 or Grid Reference NY9357. Thanks to Geograph Open Source API. All images are credited.

Tamworth Reds I never knew that pigs could set up quite the cacophonous racket that these two (together with a couple of others) did when they saw us and presumably thought that food  was on the way!
Tamworth Reds
I never knew that pigs could set up quite the cacophonous racket that these two (together with a couple of others) did when they saw us and presumably thought that food was on the way!
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.
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.
Floral bicycle in a garden at Whitley Chapel
Floral bicycle in a garden at Whitley Chapel
Gorge in Shieldhill Wood A gorge in Shieldhill Wood near the hamlet of Juniper.
Gorge in Shieldhill Wood
A gorge in Shieldhill Wood near the hamlet of Juniper.
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.
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.
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.
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.
Ford at Whitley Mill Ford and footbridge over the Rowley Burn at Whitley Mill
Ford at Whitley Mill
Ford and footbridge over the Rowley Burn at Whitley Mill
Mire House near Whitley Chapel
Mire House near Whitley Chapel
Old School and School House, Whitley Chapel
Old School and School House, Whitley Chapel
Dye House Bridge
Dye House Bridge
Dye House Cottages and former Methodist chapel Dye House Methodist Chapel can be seen in the background.  The Chapel is dated 1865 and built in the Georgian style (Pevsner).  Cottages dated 1725 and are an early example of the two-storey three bay farmhouse type (Pevsner).
Dye House Cottages and former Methodist chapel
Dye House Methodist Chapel can be seen in the background. The Chapel is dated 1865 and built in the Georgian style (Pevsner). Cottages dated 1725 and are an early example of the two-storey three bay farmhouse type (Pevsner).
Mollersteads A late 18th century house, altered in the early 19th century. This is a Grade II Listed Building protected by law.
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Mollersteads
A late 18th century house, altered in the early 19th century. This is a Grade II Listed Building protected by law. LinkExternal link
Dukesfield Smelt Mill, Hexhamshire An old smelt mill stood to the southwest of Dukesfield Mill bridge. It was built in the late 18th century. The ore came from the lead mines owned by Beaumont family in Allendale. The site was demolished in 1836, and now there is nothing to be seen here apart from the gothic arches of the flue.
Dukesfield Smelt Mill, Hexhamshire
An old smelt mill stood to the southwest of Dukesfield Mill bridge. It was built in the late 18th century. The ore came from the lead mines owned by Beaumont family in Allendale. The site was demolished in 1836, and now there is nothing to be seen here apart from the gothic arches of the flue.
The Devil's Water Picture taken just upstream from the ford and footbridge near Peth Foot
The Devil's Water
Picture taken just upstream from the ford and footbridge near Peth Foot
Redlead Mill, near Whitley Chapel
Redlead Mill, near Whitley Chapel
Ford at Dye House, near Juniper
Ford at Dye House, near Juniper
Viewley Farm
Viewley Farm
Fell Plantation
Fell Plantation
Show me another place!

Birk Plantation is located at Grid Ref: NY9357 (Lat: 54.909463, Lng: -2.0990733)

Unitary Authority: Northumberland

Police Authority: Northumbria

What 3 Words

///fail.myths.evoked. Near Slaley, Northumberland

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