West Wood

Wood, Forest in Northumberland

England

West Wood

Derwent Reservoir from Muggleswick Park Credit: Clive Nicholson

West Wood is a picturesque forest located in Northumberland, England. Spread across a vast area, it is known for its stunning natural beauty and diverse wildlife. The woodland is part of the wider Kielder Forest, which is one of the largest man-made forests in Europe.

West Wood is characterized by its dense canopies of towering trees, dominated by species such as oak, beech, and Scots pine. These trees provide a habitat for a wide range of flora and fauna, including rare bird species like the osprey and red squirrel. The forest floor is adorned with a carpet of vibrant wildflowers, adding to the enchanting atmosphere.

The wood offers an array of walking trails, allowing visitors to explore and immerse themselves in the tranquility of nature. These paths wind through the ancient trees, offering stunning views of the surrounding landscape. One popular trail leads to the Kielder Water, a vast man-made reservoir that provides a beautiful backdrop to the woodland.

West Wood is also home to a variety of recreational activities. Cycling enthusiasts can enjoy the forest's cycling trails, which cater to both beginners and experienced riders. For those seeking a more adventurous experience, there are opportunities for mountain biking and horseback riding. Additionally, the forest hosts a range of events throughout the year, including guided walks and educational programs for nature enthusiasts of all ages.

Overall, West Wood, Northumberland is a captivating forest that offers visitors a chance to escape the hustle and bustle of everyday life and immerse themselves in the beauty of nature.

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West Wood Images

Images are sourced within 2km of 54.84731/-1.919518 or Grid Reference NZ0550. Thanks to Geograph Open Source API. All images are credited.

Derwent Reservoir from Muggleswick Park

Clive Nicholson

Muggleswick Village

Dennis Lovett

Carterway Heads Crossroads

Looking North on A68

Dennis Lovett

Crooked Oak

At the end of the road

Dennis Lovett

Wallish Walls

Pontop Pike TV transmitter mast can be seen on the horizon.

Dennis Lovett

Mosswood

Dennis Lovett

Looking west towards Edmundbyers

Clive Nicholson

Signpost on A68

Vivienne Smith

Muggleswick Monastic Grange

Keys to the Past Web Site These are the remains of a monastic grange built between 1258 and 1272 on what is thought to be site of earlier grange. In 1464 site consisted of a hall, chapel, grange and dairy, the latter in poor state of repair. Visible remains include two rectangular buildings. The eastern block stands to complete height of nearly 16m at the eastern end but is elsewhere much lower. Western block survives to 4m at western end but is not visible on surface elsewhere although foundations are thought to survive underground. This building had an undercroft that was at least partly removed in 19th century.

Les Hull

Muggleswick Monastic Grange

Impressive fireplace.

Les Hull

Muggleswick All Saints Church

The Church is a plain stone structure, which was rebuilt about the year 1728, on the site of the former church, whose materials were chiefly used in the construction of the present edifice. The parish register commences in 1730. The living is a perpetual curacy, a peculiar of the dean and chapter of Durham, and pays no first fruits or tenths. The parish is free of tithes, except a portion of Cold Rowley and Muggleswick, which produces about £34 per annum: the remainder of the income of the living is derived from farm-rents in the parish. Patrons, the dean and chapter; incumbent, the Rev. Cundhill. [Whellan's History, Topography and Directory of Durham (and Newcastle) (1856), page 905.]

Les Hull