Raikes Plantation

Wood, Forest in Yorkshire Craven

England

Raikes Plantation

Swinden Quarry [1] The quarry sign.
The quarry is 2 miles south of Grassington and supplies limestone. The quarry is served by the former Skipton to Grassington railway, which now terminates here. — Swinden Quarry [1] Credit: Michael Dibb

Raikes Plantation is a picturesque woodland located in the county of Yorkshire, England. Covering an area of approximately 50 acres, this forested area is renowned for its natural beauty and diverse range of flora and fauna. Situated near the village of Raikes, the plantation is easily accessible and attracts visitors from both local and international locations.

The woodland is predominantly composed of mixed broadleaf trees, including oak, beech, ash, and birch, creating a stunning tapestry of colors during the autumn months. The dense canopy provided by these trees creates a tranquil and shaded environment, ideal for leisurely walks and nature enthusiasts.

Raikes Plantation is home to a rich biodiversity, with various species of birds, mammals, and insects residing within its borders. Birdwatchers can spot woodland birds like woodpeckers, owls, and finches, while squirrel and deer sightings are also common. The forest floor boasts an array of wildflowers, ferns, and mosses, adding to the enchanting atmosphere.

The plantation offers several well-maintained walking trails, which cater to different fitness levels and interests. These paths wind through the woodland, providing opportunities to explore the area's natural wonders, ancient trees, and peaceful glades. Additionally, there are designated picnic areas and benches where visitors can relax and enjoy the tranquil surroundings.

Raikes Plantation is managed by the local authorities, who ensure the preservation of its natural beauty and the provision of appropriate facilities for visitors. With its stunning landscape, diverse wildlife, and accessible location, Raikes Plantation is a beloved natural treasure in the heart of Yorkshire.

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Raikes Plantation Images

Images are sourced within 2km of 54.040427/-2.0288399 or Grid Reference SD9860. Thanks to Geograph Open Source API. All images are credited.

Swinden Quarry [1]

The quarry sign. The quarry is 2 miles south of Grassington and supplies limestone. The quarry is served by the former Skipton to Grassington railway, which now terminates here.

Michael Dibb

Swinden Quarry [2]

The roadway into the quarry. The quarry is 2 miles south of Grassington and supplies limestone. The quarry is served by the former Skipton to Grassington railway, which now terminates here.

Michael Dibb

Swinden Quarry [3]

Railway wagons at the end of the line. The quarry is 2 miles south of Grassington and supplies limestone. The quarry is served by the former Skipton to Grassington railway, which now terminates here.

Michael Dibb

Swinden Quarry [4]

This fine view of Elbolton Hill is seen by those departing the quarry. The quarry is 2 miles south of Grassington and supplies limestone. The quarry is served by the former Skipton to Grassington railway, which now terminates here.

Michael Dibb

The Devonshire Arms - Cracoe

Anthony Parkes

Fields at Cracoe Green

Anthony Parkes

House at Catch-all Farm

Anthony Parkes

Ordnance Survey Cut Mark

This mark can be found on a gatepost near Sunhill beside Fleets/Boss Moor Lane. The recorded details give a height of 252.6396 metres above sea level. For more detail see : Link

Peter Wood

Old Milestone by B6265, North of Cracoe at Junction with Thorpe Lane

The milestone is located on the verge behind the chevron sign on the south east side of the road. Parish of Cracoe (Craven District). Carved stone post, erected in the 18th Century. Broken across 50cm from base, now cemented together; was to north of lane, demolished, repaired twice, so resited on south east side. An earlier photograph can be found here: Link Inscription reads:- To / Grassingt(on) / (3) / K(ettle)well / To / Skipton / 6 miles Milestone Society National ID: YN_SKKT06

Ben Burrows

Fleets, Fleets Cottage

The benchmark is cut into the east facing wall of the cottage, which is on the west side of the lane.

Mel Towler

Fleets, Fleets Cottage

There is a benchmark cut into the east facing wall of the cottage, which is on the west side of the lane.

Mel Towler

Fleets, Fleets Lane

According to the OS benchmark database there is a pivot benchmark at this location cut into the roadside wall on the east side of the lane. Nothing was found.

Mel Towler

Sunhill Centre, Fleets Lane

According to the OS benchmark database there is a benchmark cut into a gatepost at the drive entrance. Nothing was found.

Mel Towler

Fleets, Boss Moor Lane

The benchmark is cut into a right hand gatepost at a field entrance on the east side of the lane.

Mel Towler

Fleets, Boss Moor Lane

There is a benchmark cut into the right hand gatepost at the field entrance on the east side of the lane.

Mel Towler

Walls rising towards hill dome

The location is along Swinden Lane, out of Cracoe. Ground rises to an attractively grassed hill dome off to the right of the bridleway, but the view from the hill would be quite different. To the north at the limit of the horizon lies the large, active Swinden Quarry which has taken away much of the far side right up to what was its summit area. (And much ground beyond.)

Trevor Littlewood

Grassy hill dome north of Cracoe

The dome is now actually a half-dome! Out of view is the large void of the Swinden Quarry which has taken away the north-eastern part of the hill. The result can be seen in Adrian Smith's image - Link .

Trevor Littlewood

Walkers crossing Linton Moor

Dull conditions for walkers heading north along the path close to the stream, Hamerton Hill Syke which runs through the gap ahead. The path runs slightly to the east of the mapped line of a bridleway.

Trevor Littlewood

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Raikes Plantation is located at Grid Ref: SD9860 (Lat: 54.040427, Lng: -2.0288399)

Division: West Riding

Administrative County: North Yorkshire

District: Craven

Police Authority: North Yorkshire