Shackleton Wood

Wood, Forest in Yorkshire

England

Shackleton Wood

Willow pony A willow sculpture of what appears to be a Dales pony at Hardcastle Crags. — Willow pony Credit: Kathleen Illingworth

Shackleton Wood, located in Yorkshire, is a picturesque forest known for its natural beauty and serene atmosphere. Covering an area of approximately 500 acres, this woodland is a haven for nature enthusiasts and outdoor adventurers alike.

The wood is primarily composed of a mix of deciduous and coniferous trees, including oak, beech, birch, and pine. These trees create a dense canopy that provides shade and shelter for a variety of wildlife. Visitors to Shackleton Wood can expect to encounter a diverse range of animal species, including deer, foxes, squirrels, and a plethora of bird species.

The forest offers an extensive network of well-maintained trails that wind through its enchanting landscape. These pathways are perfect for leisurely walks, jogging, or cycling, allowing visitors to fully immerse themselves in the tranquil ambiance of the wood. Along the trails, one can discover hidden streams, small ponds, and charming picnic spots.

Shackleton Wood also boasts a rich history, dating back hundreds of years. The wood has been managed sustainably for generations, ensuring its preservation and the protection of its unique ecosystem. There are remnants of ancient settlements and historical landmarks within the wood, adding an extra layer of intrigue for history enthusiasts.

Whether you are seeking solitude in nature, looking to explore the diverse flora and fauna, or interested in delving into the wood's rich history, Shackleton Wood offers a serene and captivating experience for all who visit. It is truly a hidden gem in the heart of Yorkshire.

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Shackleton Wood Images

Images are sourced within 2km of 53.762171/-2.039053 or Grid Reference SD9729. Thanks to Geograph Open Source API. All images are credited.

Willow pony

A willow sculpture of what appears to be a Dales pony at Hardcastle Crags.

Kathleen Illingworth

Abel Cross

A pair of wayside marker stones on the slopes above Crimsworth Dean

Kevin Waterhouse

Helliwell Wood Farmhouse

In Crimsworth Dean

Kevin Waterhouse

Aqueduct in Crimsworth Dean

The aqueduct connects a dam on the west side of Bridge Clough with one on the east. These dams connect with ones lower down the valley and all appeared to service Midgehole Dye Works

Kevin Waterhouse

Hebden Water Footbridge

Just south of the confluence with Rowshaw Clough

Kevin Waterhouse

High Greenwood House

View from Widdop Road

Kevin Waterhouse

Weir on Hebden Water, Hardcastle Crags

Humphrey Bolton

Rock outcrop, Hardcastle Crags

Humphrey Bolton

Path on a flat valley Floor, Hardcastle Crags

This is on the Green Route. In some places the valley is V-shaped with little space each side of the river, and in some places it is quite wide and flat.

Humphrey Bolton

Fallen tree across Hebden Water, Hardcastle Crags

This tree makes a 'leaky dam' to help to slow flood flows to reduce flooding in Hebden Bridge downstream. This looks to have occurred naturally, but some trees trunks and poles have been placed across the river that will form dams when floating debris has lodged on them.

Humphrey Bolton

Footbridge across Hebden Water, Hardcastle Crags

This is on the Green Route. The path formerly continued up the west side of the river and is still shown thus on maps. However it appears to have been eroded away and part of it has been re-routed to the east side, requiring two new footbridges.

Humphrey Bolton

New tree-planting amongst tall beeches, Hardcastle Crags

"There are areas of Hardcastle Crags that are densely populated by beech trees. These trees block the light from reaching the woodland floor and have stopped plants and flowers from growing underneath them. The lack of ground vegetation is a problem for wildlife and is also a worry during periods of heavy rain. With no ground plants to slow the flow, the rainwater flows quickly to the streams taking leaf litter and soil with it - this causes blockages which increases the risk of flooding in Hebden Bridge and the local area. We've started work to selectively fell trees across the woodland. As well as increasing the light level to help the vegetation and wildlife on the woodland floor, new homes for bats and birds will be created from the thinned beech trees, and their branches will be used to build leaky wooden dams – natural flood management techniques to help slow the flow of rainwater. The work will be completed by carefully chosen contractors who will inspect each tree for signs of bat habitation before work starts, and new trees, including oak, rowan, birch and holly, will be planted to replace the beech trees." From Link

Humphrey Bolton

Weir on Hebden Water, Hardcastle Crags

This looks like a flow measurement weir, and there is a small building nearby that might house the equipment. However an internet search suggests that it is no longer in use.

Humphrey Bolton

Footbridge at the northern end of the Green Route, Hardcastle Crags

Humphrey Bolton

Willow sculptures, Hardcastle Crags

A carthorse and a farmer.

Humphrey Bolton

Path to the crags, Hardcastle crags

Humphrey Bolton

Outbuildings at Walshaw

These appear to be dog kennels with four railed yards in front of small rooms. Walshaw is a centre for grouse shooting and perhaps these outbuildings were in connection with that sport rather than hunting.

Kevin Waterhouse

Clam bridge in Rowshaw Clough

This appears to be on an old Victorian track that led to Horseshoe Cascade in Rowshaw Clough which was a popular attraction. The paths if they still exist are now in private woodland.

Kevin Waterhouse

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Shackleton Wood is located at Grid Ref: SD9729 (Lat: 53.762171, Lng: -2.039053)

Division: West Riding

Unitary Authority: Calderdale

Police Authority: West Yorkshire