Bellburn Wood

Wood, Forest in Durham

England

Bellburn Wood

Path at field edge on north side of Durham Road The path descends alongside a drilled field with the parkland of Auckland Castle off to the right.
The small town of Bishop Auckland lies beyond the trees, its only high-rise building seen above them. — Path at field edge on north side of Durham Road Credit: Trevor Littlewood

Bellburn Wood is a picturesque forest located in Durham, England. Covering an area of approximately 100 hectares, it is a popular destination for nature enthusiasts and outdoor lovers. The wood is situated on the eastern side of the River Wear, near the village of Edmundbyers.

Bellburn Wood is characterized by its diverse range of tree species, including oak, birch, beech, and conifers. The variety of trees creates a rich and vibrant canopy, providing a haven for numerous wildlife species. Visitors to the wood can expect to encounter birds such as woodpeckers, owls, and various songbirds, as well as mammals like red squirrels and roe deer.

The forest offers a network of well-maintained trails, allowing visitors to explore and experience the natural beauty of the area. These paths wind through the wood, leading hikers and walkers past tranquil streams, charming glades, and peaceful ponds. The wood also features several picnic areas, providing a perfect spot for visitors to relax and enjoy a meal amidst the serene surroundings.

Bellburn Wood is managed by the Durham Wildlife Trust, a local conservation organization dedicated to protecting and preserving the natural heritage of the county. The Trust actively works to maintain the wood's biodiversity, ensuring a sustainable habitat for the various flora and fauna that call it home.

Overall, Bellburn Wood is a delightful destination for anyone seeking a peaceful and enchanting woodland experience. With its stunning landscapes, abundant wildlife, and well-maintained trails, it offers a perfect escape into nature for visitors of all ages and interests.

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Bellburn Wood Images

Images are sourced within 2km of 54.681428/-1.6665423 or Grid Reference NZ2131. Thanks to Geograph Open Source API. All images are credited.

Path at field edge on north side of Durham Road

The path descends alongside a drilled field with the parkland of Auckland Castle off to the right. The small town of Bishop Auckland lies beyond the trees, its only high-rise building seen above them.

Trevor Littlewood

Traditional, but vacant shopfront on Newgate Street

Formerly occupied by Dorothy Perkins.

Roger Cornfoot

Drinking fountain at foot of Castle Chare, Bishop Auckland

The fountain is at the foot of steps which rise through the space and woodland beyond: that's Castle Chare. The fountain was 'Erected by the Temperance Society' in 1873. The foreground road is Gib Chare.

Trevor Littlewood

Terrace of several houses

The houses, perhaps originally four of them, appear to have undergone some conversion and are probably not all occupied as homes. They lie to the east of Newgate Street, the main shopping area in Bishop Auckland. They overlook Kingsway, a road below and to the right, out of the image.

Trevor Littlewood

Castle Chare Fountain

Grade II listed drinking fountain from 1873. Details from Historic England here: Link

David Robinson

River Wear

View upstream.

Mick Garratt

Site of former Hunwick station, 1997

View SW, towards Bishop Auckland: ex-NER Durham - Bishop Auckland line, closed to passengers 4/5/64, to goods 5/8/68. On the left is a children's adventure feature, like those often found in playgrounds and pub gardens.

Ben Brooksbank

Roman Road at Vinovia

Vinovia was an important Roman fort on Dere Street, a major supply route from modern day York to Corbridge and beyond.

David Robinson

Hypocaust at Vinovia

Hypocausts were a Roman heating system used for heating bath houses. Air heated by a furnace would circulate beneath the floor of the bathhouse which was raised on a series of pillars.

David Robinson