Firth Hill Plantation

Wood, Forest in Yorkshire Craven

England

Firth Hill Plantation

Height Laithe The public bridleway passes through a gate (on which the photographer is leaning) and heads off along the line of the wall towards the left of the view. A public footpath joins the bridleway over a stile just the far side of the stone barn, which, however, drops one directly in front of the cattle taking shelter from the bitter wind behind the ruins of a further wall. Since this seemed gratuitously confrontational (and though the cattle seemed laid back, the dog had it in mind to change that situation) we had skirted to the right of the barn to join the bridleway by the muddy tracks over the shoulder of the hillside on the right on the view, which seemed to make everyone&#039;s life more relaxed. — Height Laithe Credit: Andy Waddington

Firth Hill Plantation is a sprawling woodland located in the picturesque region of Yorkshire, England. Covering an area of approximately 500 acres, this plantation is renowned for its natural beauty and diverse ecosystem. Situated on a gently sloping hill, it offers breathtaking panoramic views of the surrounding countryside.

The plantation primarily consists of a mix of deciduous and coniferous trees, creating a harmonious blend of colors throughout the year. Towering oak, beech, and ash trees dominate the landscape, while spruces and pines provide a contrasting touch. The diverse tree species support a wide range of wildlife, including birds, mammals, and insects.

Visitors to Firth Hill Plantation can enjoy an extensive network of walking trails that meander through the woodland, allowing them to explore its hidden treasures. The pathways are well-maintained and provide easy access to the different sections of the plantation. One can witness the changing seasons, from vibrant spring blooms to the golden hues of autumn, making it an ideal destination for nature enthusiasts and photographers.

Aside from its natural beauty, Firth Hill Plantation also serves as an important habitat for various rare and endangered species. Conservation efforts have been undertaken to preserve the ecological balance of the woodland, ensuring the survival of these vulnerable creatures.

Overall, Firth Hill Plantation is a captivating destination that offers a tranquil escape from the hustle and bustle of everyday life. Its idyllic setting, rich biodiversity, and well-preserved trails make it a must-visit location for anyone seeking to immerse themselves in the beauty of nature in Yorkshire.

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Firth Hill Plantation Images

Images are sourced within 2km of 54.070911/-2.0583997 or Grid Reference SD9663. Thanks to Geograph Open Source API. All images are credited.

Height Laithe

The public bridleway passes through a gate (on which the photographer is leaning) and heads off along the line of the wall towards the left of the view. A public footpath joins the bridleway over a stile just the far side of the stone barn, which, however, drops one directly in front of the cattle taking shelter from the bitter wind behind the ruins of a further wall. Since this seemed gratuitously confrontational (and though the cattle seemed laid back, the dog had it in mind to change that situation) we had skirted to the right of the barn to join the bridleway by the muddy tracks over the shoulder of the hillside on the right on the view, which seemed to make everyone's life more relaxed.

Andy Waddington

Looking to the settlement above Cow Close Wood

The immediate foreground is a path leading vaguely from the public bridleway above Height Laithe towards Height House. The hill beyond is marked with two antiquities, a "Settlement" and a "Hut circle and enclosure". Presumably these are different stages of development of a prehistoric community on the limestone hilltop where there is plenty of stone for building, a good view, and good soil suitable for farming. The more modern farm buildings, having less need for defence, perhaps, favour a more sheltered location below the hill, though today they find themselves on the windward side in a gusty and bitter breeze.

Andy Waddington

Limestone boulders on Malham Moor

Just west of the bridleway from Height Laithe towards Mastiles Lane, just after crossing Malham Moor Lane, a vague track diverges to loop back and rejoin the right of way. From a geographer's point of view, its main benefit is in reaching a position which is assuredly inside the same square as the view to the west over the higher parts of the moor.

Andy Waddington

Limestone Knoll on Malham Moor

The public bridleway from Malham Moor Lane towards Mastiles Lane passes to the west of this limestone knoll which has a marked antiquity on the map, a "Homestead", smaller than a "Settlement" and perilously close to the edge of Threshfield Quarry, which is just over the horizon on the right of the photograph and has removed a huge chunk of the reef knoll. Further away, the cloud is just enveloping the top of Great Whernside beyond Wharfedale in the increasingly bitter westerly wind.

Andy Waddington

Track crossing the open expanse of Boss Moor

Looking northward.

Peter Wood

Track crossing Boss Moor

Looking eastward.

Peter Wood

Malham Moor

According to the OS benchmark database there was a benchmark cut into a gatepost at this location. The gateposts have been replaced and are wooden. No benchmark was found.

Mel Towler