Baydale Wood

Wood, Forest in Durham

England

Baydale Wood

Witbank Road, Darlington The entrance to Witbank Road seen from Holyhurst Road which runs past the west side of Darlington Memorial Hospital. — Witbank Road, Darlington Credit: Trevor Littlewood

Baydale Wood, located in Durham, is a stunning forest that spans over a vast area. With its enchanting beauty and diverse ecosystem, it attracts nature enthusiasts, hikers, and photographers alike. The wood is situated on the outskirts of the charming village of High Coniscliffe, offering a peaceful escape from the bustling city life.

Covering an area of approximately 70 hectares, Baydale Wood is predominantly composed of broadleaf trees such as oak, ash, and beech. These majestic trees create a dense canopy, providing shade and shelter for a variety of wildlife. The forest floor is adorned with a rich carpet of bluebells and wildflowers during spring, creating a picturesque scene.

The wood is crisscrossed with well-maintained paths, making it accessible for visitors of all ages. There are several designated walking trails, ranging from short strolls to longer hikes, allowing visitors to explore the wood at their own pace. Along these trails, one can encounter a plethora of wildlife, including deer, squirrels, and various species of birds.

Baydale Wood is not just a haven for nature lovers, but also a significant historical site. It is believed to have been part of the medieval forest of Sadberge, which was extensively used for hunting by the local nobility. Remnants of ancient drovers' roads can still be found within the wood, adding to its historical charm.

In conclusion, Baydale Wood in Durham is a captivating forest that offers a serene retreat for individuals seeking solace in nature. With its breathtaking scenery, diverse wildlife, and historical significance, it has become a cherished destination for both locals and tourists alike.

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Baydale Wood Images

Images are sourced within 2km of 54.51695/-1.5848532 or Grid Reference NZ2613. Thanks to Geograph Open Source API. All images are credited.

Witbank Road, Darlington

The entrance to Witbank Road seen from Holyhurst Road which runs past the west side of Darlington Memorial Hospital.

Trevor Littlewood

Darlington - Blackwellgate

Colin Park

Blackwell Bridge Cottage, Blackwell Bridge, A66

Ex Toll House on the bridge over the River Tees. Originally serving the Darlington to Middleton Tyas Turnpike Trust. Milestone Society National ID: YN.STA

Hilary Jones

Old Milestone by A67, Conniscliffe Road, Broken Brae carpark, near pumping station

The Milestone is located on grass verge on the South of the road. Parish of Low Coniscliffe And Merrybent (Darlington District). Carved stone post, BC/D stone design, erected by the Stockton & Barnard Castle turnpike trust in the 18th Century, part buried underground. An earlier photograph can be found here: Link Inscription reads:- BC / (14) : : D / (2) Milestone Society National ID: DU_DABC02

Hilary Jones

Darlington Memorial Hospital

David Robinson

Tees Cottage Pumping Station, Darlington [1]

The 1852 filter bed and the 1852 engine house. The pumping station was built on the north bank of the River Tees in 1849 to provide clean drinking water to Darlington and other parts of Teesside. It became a museum in 1980. The engine house now houses a gas engine, installed in 1914. Water is pumped up from the River Tees by the gas engine and then filtered through sand in this pond.

Christine Johnstone

Tees Cottage Pumping Station, Darlington [2]

The 1849 filter beds and the 1904 beam engine house. The pumping station was built on the north bank of the River Tees in 1849 to provide clean drinking water to Darlington and other parts of Teesside. It became a museum in 1980. The beam engine pumps up water from river water into the filter beds, where it filters slowly through sand.

Christine Johnstone

Tees Cottage Pumping Station, Darlington [3]

Pumped river water entering both 1849 filter beds. The pumping station was built on the north bank of the River Tees in 1849 to provide clean drinking water to Darlington and other parts of Teesside. It became a museum in 1980.

Christine Johnstone

Stockton and Darlington Model Engineers [1]

Based at Tees Cottage pumping station.

Christine Johnstone

Tees Cottage Pumping Station, Darlington [4]

The 1852 clear water tank. Filtered water was stored here before being pumped to a service reservoir. The pumping station was built on the north bank of the River Tees in 1849 to provide clean drinking water to Darlington and other parts of Teesside. It became a museum in 1980.

Christine Johnstone

Stockton and Darlington Model Engineers [2]

Their railway track runs inside the southern boundary of the Tees Cottage pumping station [now a museum].

Christine Johnstone

Tees Cottage Pumping Station, Darlington [5]

The red cylinders outside the 1904 beam engine house were used to help smooth out differences in water pressure. Similar cylinders are outside the 1852 engine house. The pumping station was built on the north bank of the River Tees in 1849 to provide clean drinking water to Darlington and other parts of Teesside. It became a museum in 1980.

Christine Johnstone