Cottage Plantation

Wood, Forest in Northumberland

England

Cottage Plantation

Cottage Plantation, located in Northumberland, is a picturesque woodland area that offers a serene and tranquil escape from the bustle of urban life. Spread across a vast expanse, the plantation is known for its dense forest cover, making it an ideal destination for nature enthusiasts and hikers.

The plantation is home to a diverse range of tree species, including oak, birch, and pine, which contribute to its rich biodiversity. The lush greenery creates a soothing ambiance, with the sunlight filtering through the trees, casting dappled shadows on the forest floor. This enchanting setting provides a perfect backdrop for leisurely walks, picnics, and photography.

Furthermore, Cottage Plantation boasts several well-maintained trails that wind their way through the woodland, offering visitors the opportunity to explore its hidden gems. The trails vary in difficulty, catering to both novice and experienced hikers. Along the way, one may encounter a variety of wildlife, such as squirrels, rabbits, and a plethora of bird species, adding to the enchantment of the experience.

The plantation also features a charming cottage that dates back to the 18th century. The cottage, with its rustic architecture and picturesque surroundings, is a popular spot for visitors to immerse themselves in the history and charm of the area. It serves as a reminder of the plantation's historical significance, as it was once a thriving hub of agricultural activity.

Overall, Cottage Plantation in Northumberland is a hidden gem for nature lovers, offering a mesmerizing blend of lush forests, scenic trails, and a glimpse into the region's past. Whether one seeks solitude, adventure, or simply a connection with nature, this woodland sanctuary is sure to leave a lasting impression.

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Cottage Plantation Images

Images are sourced within 2km of 54.898611/-2.0171369 or Grid Reference NY9855. Thanks to Geograph Open Source API. All images are credited.

Lane Head

Les Hull

Track Junction, High Kellas Plantation

A lonesome pine standing tall in a much younger block of forestry.

Mick Garratt

Ditch End, Low Kellas Plantation

A competitor in an orienteering event is approaching a control sited at the ditch end.

Mick Garratt

Healey Whins

A farmstead viewed from the south within Kellas Forest.

Mick Garratt

Wall at Hairy Side

Oliver Dixon

Hairy Side

View across Hairy Side above Derwent Reservoir.

Peter McDermott

Old Stove

Old Stove, including stove pipe and fuel, near Hairy Side.

Peter McDermott

Healey Riggend

Peter McDermott

Lane Head

Peter McDermott

Footpath into Kellas Plantation east of Kellas Bridge

Mike Quinn

Donald's Grave below Hairy Side

Mike Quinn

Coal Road leading to Slaley Golf Course

Les Hull

Donald's Grave near Esper Shields

Donald's Grave is apparently the name of this boundary stone on the south side of the minor road that runs from Kiln Pit Hill on the A68 to Blanchland, 10m east of the Coal Road (track) that leads north-west through the grounds of Slaley Hall. The stone is Grade II Listed (List Entry Number: 1045376) and is described as: "Probable boundary marker, C18th or perhaps a reworking of a more ancient stone. Gritstone. Roughly-cut monolith of trapezoidal plan, exposed height 0.9 metres. East face with incised B; north face with remains of incised design, possibly a cross within a circle; west face incised A (laid sideways) and S." See closer photo here NZ0054 : Donald's Grave near Esper Shields (detail) Local researchers think the stone may be an allotment marker from the Bulbeck Common Award (1771) which was divided between George Silvertop of Minsteracres (S) and George Baker (B), the Lord of the Manor. It has also been suggested that Donald's Grave may have originally been mapped on the north side of the road but the nature of the feature represented by the name is not specified. There are two further named stones just to the north, possibly on the same boundary: Greyhound Stone (which I couldn't find) and Hare Stone, an C18th boundary stone. All 3 stones are named on the 1st Edition 6" OS Map Northumberland, 104 (1864): Link

Only Donald's Grave is represented on current large scale mapping. The Hare Stone is also Listed Grade II (List Entry Number: 1370318) said to be marked B (Blanchland) on south-west, and S (Slaley) on north-east side NY9955 : The Hare Stone near Slaley Hall The hill in the field beyond the wall is named Hairy Side.

Andrew Curtis

Donald's Grave near Esper Shields (detail)

See description here NZ0054 : Donald's Grave near Esper Shields

Andrew Curtis

Forest track branches off byway, Slaley Forest

The route to the right is supposedly a byway, though the line of that right of way some way ahead seems to have been wholly effaced by the forest leaving only rather longer routes on the forest tracks (with signage making clear that these are not for vehicles). The route to the left is one of these tracks, and the one we have just taken to reach this point (in the absence of any trace of the byway we'd intended to use starting about two kilometres away).

Andy Waddington