Bull Covert

Wood, Forest in Yorkshire Harrogate

England

Bull Covert

Fountains Abbey Mill A rare surviving Cistercian water mill. The brick extension houses a more modern wheel that operated a sawmill into the 20th century. In the centre of the building is a water turbine that generated electricity but was only turning very slowly. — Fountains Abbey Mill Credit: Chris Allen

Bull Covert, Yorkshire, also known as Wood or Forest, is a picturesque area located in the county of Yorkshire, England. Nestled amidst rolling hills and verdant landscapes, this hidden gem is a haven for nature lovers and outdoor enthusiasts.

Bull Covert is characterized by its dense woodlands, which are predominantly composed of oak and beech trees. These ancient trees create a captivating canopy, providing shade and shelter for a diverse array of flora and fauna. The forest floor is adorned with a carpet of vibrant wildflowers and ferns, offering a visually stunning sight throughout the year.

Tranquility and serenity are key features of Bull Covert, making it an ideal destination for those seeking respite from the hustle and bustle of city life. The area boasts numerous walking trails and footpaths, allowing visitors to explore its natural wonders at their own pace. Wildlife is abundant in the area, with sightings of deer, foxes, and various bird species being common.

For history enthusiasts, Bull Covert offers a glimpse into the past. The forest has been a part of the local heritage for centuries, with evidence of human habitation dating back to ancient times. The remnants of old settlements and historical landmarks can be found scattered throughout the area, adding a sense of intrigue and depth to the overall experience.

In conclusion, Bull Covert, Yorkshire, is a captivating forested area that showcases the beauty and tranquility of the English countryside. With its lush woodlands, diverse wildlife, and rich history, it is a destination that appeals to both nature lovers and history enthusiasts alike.

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Bull Covert Images

Images are sourced within 2km of 54.094349/-1.6001665 or Grid Reference SE2666. Thanks to Geograph Open Source API. All images are credited.

Fountains Abbey Mill

A rare surviving Cistercian water mill. The brick extension houses a more modern wheel that operated a sawmill into the 20th century. In the centre of the building is a water turbine that generated electricity but was only turning very slowly.

Chris Allen

Along Sawley Moor Lane

Near Meadow Brook Farm.

DS Pugh

Farmland near Moor Lane Farm

Viewed from Sawley Moor Lane.

DS Pugh

Along Sawley Moor Lane

Looking along Sawley Moor Lane near Moor Lane Farm.

DS Pugh

Towards Sawley

Looking along Middycar Bank at the junction with Sawley Moor Lane.

DS Pugh

Middycar Bank

Looking along the treelined road to Sawley.

DS Pugh

Farmland near Green Bank Wood

Looking across Fountains Park towards The Dean.

DS Pugh

Rough House

From the road to Fountains Abbey.

DS Pugh

Tree next to the Skell

The River Skell runs just behind the tree.

DS Pugh

Fountains Bridge

Fountains Lane crosses the River Skell.

DS Pugh

Fountains Lane

The entrance to Studley Royal is just ahead on the right.

DS Pugh

Muddy field off Fountains Lane

After a lot of heavy rain over the Christmas period.

DS Pugh

Fountains Abbey - microhydropower

Within the Cistercian watermill there is a water turbine that has been arranged to drive a modern alternator to provide some 'green' power for the estate. On this occasion it was turning very slowly and would not have been generating any useful output.

Chris Allen

Former Cistercian watermill, Fountains Abbey

This is a very historic mill and still retains a more modern wheel that drove a sawmill and a water turbine for generating electricity. The original corn mill wheel and machinery is long gone.

Chris Allen

Fountains Hall

PAUL FARMER

Fountain's Mill

Fountains Abbey is a ruined Cistercian monastery, founded in 1132. Fountains Abbey is one of the largest and best preserved Cistercian houses in England. It is a Grade I listed building and owned by the National Trust. Along with the adjacent Studley Royal Water Garden, it is a UNESCO World Heritage Site. This Link

allows a "virtual tour" of the site using Google Streetview. Link

for More details (National Trust)

PAUL FARMER

How Hill Tower

It seems rather odd that the OS map should show this as a church as it has not served that function for several hundred years. Originally built by the monks of nearby Fountains Abbey as a chapel dedicated to St Michael the Archangel sometime before 1346, it became something of a pilgrimage site during the middle ages with a winding pathway leading up the hill which would allow pilgrims views to the abbey and towards both Ripon and York Minsters, the latter being at least 25 miles away. It survived as a chapel for a while after the dissolution, but there's a lack of records after 1570 suggesting that it had fallen out of use. The current tower, minus some later additions, is the work of John Aislabie who acquired the property around 1717 and rebuilt it as an 'eyecatcher' soon after in 1719, the idea being that it would form the focal point to the view from the proposed new mansion above the NE end of the lake [SE282695 - but never built], with a line of sight along the length of the new canal through the water gardens. The stone pyramidical roof and four sided cross on the top suggest a Masonic link. The tower has undergone some further restoration in recent years and is worth visiting for the extensive view in all directions.

Gordon Hatton