Todford Plantation

Wood, Forest in Durham

England

Todford Plantation

Grouse shooting infrastructure above Spurlswood Gill The track has clearly been here long enough for vegetation to be growing through the base, and to be depicted on the OS map, but the shooting hut still seems to be labelled &quot;sheepfold&quot;, though it, too, does not seem particularly new. The track is made from natural stone as far as the hut, and has been dug out down to bedrock on a steep slope to cross Spurlswood Gill. Only as it climbs back onto the peat is it made with this artificial material, representing a huge amount of both plastic and steel pollution in the environment. The track heads east behind the photographer to serve a line of well-built stone grouse butts almost as far as the edge of the gridsquare. — Grouse shooting infrastructure above Spurlswood Gill Credit: Andy Waddington

Todford Plantation is a historical site located in Durham, England. Situated in the Wood, Forest area of Durham, the plantation holds significant cultural and historical value. The site covers a vast expanse of land, encompassing dense woodlands and scenic landscapes.

The origins of Todford Plantation can be traced back to the medieval era when it served as a hunting ground for the local nobility. Over time, it evolved into a productive agricultural estate, primarily focusing on the cultivation of crops such as wheat and barley. The plantation became renowned for its fertile soil and favorable climate, ideal for successful farming.

Today, Todford Plantation stands as a testament to Durham's rich heritage. Visitors can explore the expansive woodland areas, which offer picturesque walking trails and opportunities for wildlife observation. The plantation is home to numerous species of flora and fauna, including ancient oak trees and various bird species.

The plantation also features a historic manor house, believed to have been constructed in the 16th century. This architectural gem showcases the classic Tudor style, with its timber-framed structure and distinctive chimney stacks. The house has been carefully preserved and now serves as a museum, offering insights into the region's history and the lives of those who once resided there.

Todford Plantation is a beloved destination for history enthusiasts, nature lovers, and those seeking a peaceful retreat amidst the beauty of Durham's woodlands. Its significance as a historical site and its natural splendor make it a must-visit location for locals and tourists alike.

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Todford Plantation Images

Images are sourced within 2km of 54.626375/-2.0060856 or Grid Reference NY9925. Thanks to Geograph Open Source API. All images are credited.

Grouse shooting infrastructure above Spurlswood Gill

The track has clearly been here long enough for vegetation to be growing through the base, and to be depicted on the OS map, but the shooting hut still seems to be labelled "sheepfold", though it, too, does not seem particularly new. The track is made from natural stone as far as the hut, and has been dug out down to bedrock on a steep slope to cross Spurlswood Gill. Only as it climbs back onto the peat is it made with this artificial material, representing a huge amount of both plastic and steel pollution in the environment. The track heads east behind the photographer to serve a line of well-built stone grouse butts almost as far as the edge of the gridsquare.

Andy Waddington

Tractor on moorland of Grey Carrs

The tractor is part of a heather burning operation on the heather moorland, part of the management scheme for grouse shooting. Tractors are used to mow 'lanes' around areas of heather to be burned, those lanes then act as firebreaks to contain the blaze. The tractor very likely has doubled wheels at the rear to spread its load on delicate ground.

Trevor Littlewood

Summit area of Grey Carrs - 2

The flat, sparsely vegetated summit area of Grey Carrs looking west towards Teesdale and beyond. The highest hills of the Pennines from Mickle Fell to Cross Fell line the horizon.

Trevor Littlewood

Wall and grassy track climbing out of valley

The wall climbs to the north from the valley of the Blackton Beck. The run of knolls on the skyline are known as Knotts.

Trevor Littlewood

Nemour Hall

Nemour Hall appears in this image as a fairly modest house with a barn attached at the rear; it is in fact revealed to be a quite large building once the front comes into view.

Trevor Littlewood

Bleak moorland above Blackton Head

David Brown

Track on Grey Carrs

David Brown

Frozen track on Nemour Hill

David Brown

Track to Grey Carrs

Taken from just beyond the end of the public road, at the point where a rather esoteric public footpath turns south west to end at a random point of no destination. The more useful public right of way is the bridleway which starts up this track up Nemour Hill, and breaks out onto the open fell to cross the southern slopes of Grey Carrs. Although, as a bridleway, one has every right to pursue this route on a bike, it is not particularly enjoyable, being deeply rutted, boggy or deep in heather in various stages of the crossing.

Andy Waddington