Swainthornes Wood

Wood, Forest in Yorkshire Harrogate

England

Swainthornes Wood

Spofforth Castle In south west corner of the Square, Looking North.
The ruins of a hall range are all that remain from a fortified house. The site had been the home of the Percy family since Norman times and in 1308, Henry de Percy obtained a licence to crenellate. However the next year he purchased the barony of Alnwick, and it was at Alnwick (Northumberland) that he built a magnificent castle that became the new home of the Percys. The oldest visible part of the property is the 13th century undercroft to the hall, which is built against a rocky outcrop. There is a 14th century two-storey chamber to the north of the hall that has a polygonal stair turret on the north-west corner. The main hall was rebuilt in the 15th century. — Spofforth Castle Credit: Paul Allison

Swainthornes Wood is a picturesque woodland located in Yorkshire, England. Situated in the heart of the county, this enchanting forest covers an area of approximately 100 acres, boasting a diverse range of flora and fauna. It is a popular destination for nature lovers, hikers, and outdoor enthusiasts.

The wood is primarily composed of deciduous trees, including oak, beech, and birch, which create a stunning tapestry of colors throughout the year. In spring, vibrant blossoms and wildflowers carpet the forest floor, while in autumn, the trees transform into a kaleidoscope of reds, yellows, and oranges, making it an ideal spot for capturing breathtaking photographs.

The woodland is crisscrossed by an extensive network of well-maintained trails, allowing visitors to explore its hidden gems at their own pace. These trails meander through the forest, leading to tranquil streams, charming meadows, and secret clearings, providing a sense of peace and tranquility.

Swainthornes Wood is also a haven for wildlife. Visitors may spot various species of birds, including woodpeckers, owls, and songbirds, as well as small mammals such as rabbits, squirrels, and foxes. The wood is also home to a wide range of insects, butterflies, and other invertebrates, offering endless opportunities for nature enthusiasts to observe and appreciate the local biodiversity.

For those seeking a break from the hustle and bustle of everyday life, Swainthornes Wood offers a serene and idyllic retreat. Its natural beauty, abundant wildlife, and well-maintained trails make it a perfect destination for anyone looking to immerse themselves in the peaceful embrace of nature.

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Swainthornes Wood Images

Images are sourced within 2km of 53.968038/-1.442689 or Grid Reference SE3652. Thanks to Geograph Open Source API. All images are credited.

Spofforth Castle

In south west corner of the Square, Looking North. The ruins of a hall range are all that remain from a fortified house. The site had been the home of the Percy family since Norman times and in 1308, Henry de Percy obtained a licence to crenellate. However the next year he purchased the barony of Alnwick, and it was at Alnwick (Northumberland) that he built a magnificent castle that became the new home of the Percys. The oldest visible part of the property is the 13th century undercroft to the hall, which is built against a rocky outcrop. There is a 14th century two-storey chamber to the north of the hall that has a polygonal stair turret on the north-west corner. The main hall was rebuilt in the 15th century.

Paul Allison

Crimple Valley

Taken on the way to the Crimple Valley Geocache during a terrible hailstorm.

Nigel Knapton

Plumpton Rocks

One of the most important landscape gardens in the North of England. It has been declared by English Heritage to be of outstanding interest and is rated as Grade 2.

Chris McLean

Spofforth Methodist Church

Spofforth Methodist Church, School Lane, Spofforth, HG3 1BA

John Davidson

Park Beck, Spofforth

Looking south from the bridge over Park Beck about half a mile north of Spofforth. Park Beck is a tributary of the River Crimple that runs through Spofforth. The Crimple is a tributary of the River Nidd.

michael ely

Aketon Close

The farm in the dip is Aketon Close. Taken from Haggs Bridge over the former Harrogate to Spofforth railway.

DS Pugh

Disused railway from Haggs Bridge

Taken from Haggs Bridge looking at the former Harrogate to Spofforth railway.

DS Pugh

Zenna Terrace - Spofforth

A terrace in Spofforth. The castle is a few hundred yards away on the left.

DS Pugh

Spofforth - A661

The A661 running through Spofforth. The bridge where the photo was taken used to cross over the Harrogate to Wetherby railway, hence the Pub on the left is called the Railway Inn. The trackbed from here to Wetherby is now a sustrans cycle route known as the Harland Way.

DS Pugh