Blackburn Wood

Wood, Forest in Durham

England

Blackburn Wood

Path at woodland edge near to Copley Chimney The trees are at least partly those of Gibbsneese Plantation. The preserved industrial monument, Copley Chimney, part of the Gaunless Smelt Mill, is within the woods behind the camera location. — Path at woodland edge near to Copley Chimney Credit: Trevor Littlewood

Blackburn Wood is a picturesque forest located in Durham, England. Spanning over a vast area, it is a popular destination for nature enthusiasts and outdoor lovers. The wood is characterized by its dense canopy of various tree species, creating a tranquil and serene atmosphere.

The diverse range of flora and fauna found in Blackburn Wood is a testament to its ecological significance. The forest is home to numerous species of birds, including woodpeckers, owls, and songbirds, making it a paradise for birdwatchers. Additionally, small mammals such as squirrels, rabbits, and foxes can also be spotted in the wood.

Visitors to Blackburn Wood can enjoy a variety of activities. There are well-maintained trails that wind through the forest, allowing for leisurely walks and hikes. These paths provide opportunities to explore the wood's natural beauty and discover hidden gems along the way. Picnic areas are also available, providing a peaceful spot to relax and enjoy the surroundings.

The wood is open to the public year-round, with different seasons offering unique experiences. In the spring, the forest comes alive with colorful wildflowers and budding trees. Summer brings warmer temperatures, while autumn presents a stunning display of vibrant foliage. Winter transforms the wood into a peaceful, snowy landscape, perfect for winter walks.

Blackburn Wood, with its natural beauty and tranquil ambiance, offers a much-needed escape from the hustle and bustle of city life. Whether it's for a peaceful stroll, birdwatching, or simply enjoying a picnic surrounded by nature, this forest is a true gem in Durham's countryside.

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Blackburn Wood Images

Images are sourced within 2km of 54.602126/-1.8573555 or Grid Reference NZ0923. Thanks to Geograph Open Source API. All images are credited.

Path at woodland edge near to Copley Chimney

The trees are at least partly those of Gibbsneese Plantation. The preserved industrial monument, Copley Chimney, part of the Gaunless Smelt Mill, is within the woods behind the camera location.

Trevor Littlewood

Track To Friar Cote

David Robinson

Track To West Farm

David Robinson

Entrance to Gawen House Farm

Anthony Parkes

Farmland on Staindrop Moor

Anthony Parkes

Drive to West Farm

The first part of the long drive to West Farm is used as a public footpath.

Maigheach-gheal

Wall near Langley Beck

Moss is a small green plant, rarely more than a few inches high, which grows anywhere not overshadowed by taller vegetation or perpetually dry. There are more than 600 species in the British Isles, growing on rocks and walls, in woodlands and on tree trunks and branches. They are important pioneers of rock surfaces, holding moisture in their leaves and building up humus in which the seeds of flowering plants can germinate. There are two alternating generations in the life cycle of moss. The plant itself carries male and female organs. After fertilisation, these produce a capsule. Stalk and capsule together form an asexual, spore-bearing generation. The spores produced are capable of germinating into a new plant. Mosses also reproduce vegetatively, by small pieces breaking off and growing into a new plant. As they are rootless and tend to get their nutrients from water running over or through them they are nearly always short.

Maigheach-gheal

Langley Beck near Kinninvie

Looking downstream. Sheep graze in the adjacent field and a tractor appears to drive down the stream to fill the hay rack.

Maigheach-gheal

Langley Beck near Kinninvie

Looking upstream.

Maigheach-gheal

Sheep by Langley Beck

It must be the time of year because as soon as you appear at a gate sheep rush over in the hope of being fed.

Maigheach-gheal

Drystone walls near Copley

Drystone walls are built without mortar, and their stability – they can stand for 200 years – is due to the skill of the craftsmen who place rough boulders and angular stones together. Many drystone walls were constructed as part of the enclosure of open grazing. They were especially useful in areas too exposed for hedgerows to survive and where stones were readily available. Most drystone walls are wider at the base than at the crown, and are often capped with coping stones. A typical wall has two outer layers of large, flattish stones enclosing an inner ‘heart’ of smaller, rounder stones. Often it is reinforced with ‘through bands’ of even larger, flat stones which can also be used as stiles. The very dryness of a wall makes it more likely to endure wind and frost and to act as shelter for livestock as well as a boundary.

Maigheach-gheal

West Farm

Fields at West Farm on Staindrop Moor.

Peter McDermott

Raby Moor House

Derelict farm buildings.

Peter McDermott

Gawen House

Gawen House Farm seen from Moor Lane.

Peter McDermott

Track to Gibbsneese

Track and prow on the approach to Gibbsneese Farm.

Gordon Hatton

Track and footpath near Gibbsneese

Heading north west towards a white painted barn on Gibbsneese Farm.

Gordon Hatton

Approaching Gibbsneese Plantation

Following the public footpath from Gibbsneese towards Gaunless Mill with Gibbsneese Plantation ahead. The keen eyed might just spot the top of the Gaunless lead mill chimney above the trees to the right of the gate.

Gordon Hatton