Catholes Wood

Wood, Forest in Midlothian

Scotland

Catholes Wood

Catholes Wood is a picturesque forest located in the region of Midlothian, Scotland. Covering an area of approximately 500 acres, it is a well-preserved natural habitat that attracts nature enthusiasts and outdoor lovers alike. The wood is situated just a few miles southeast of the town of Penicuik, making it easily accessible for visitors.

The forest is primarily composed of mixed deciduous trees, including oak, ash, birch, and beech, which provide a stunning display of colors during the autumn months. The lush undergrowth is home to a diverse range of flora and fauna, making it an ideal spot for wildlife observation and birdwatching.

Catholes Wood offers an extensive network of walking trails, allowing visitors to explore the area at their own pace. The well-maintained paths wind through the forest, leading to beautiful viewpoints, secluded clearings, and serene ponds. There are also picnic areas scattered throughout the wood, providing the perfect opportunity for visitors to relax and enjoy a meal amidst the tranquil surroundings.

The wood is rich in historical and cultural significance as well. The remains of a prehistoric hillfort can be found within Catholes Wood, offering a glimpse into the area's ancient past. Additionally, the forest has played a vital role in the local community, providing timber for construction and fuel for centuries.

Overall, Catholes Wood is a haven of natural beauty, offering a peaceful retreat for individuals seeking solace in nature. Whether it's taking a leisurely stroll, birdwatching, or simply enjoying a picnic, this enchanting forest provides a wonderful escape from the hustle and bustle of everyday life.

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Catholes Wood Images

Images are sourced within 2km of 55.865637/-3.0768865 or Grid Reference NT3264. Thanks to Geograph Open Source API. All images are credited.

Colliery cat kipping in coal

At the National Mining Museum Scotland, the former Lady Victoria Colliery.

Robin Webster

Equipment maintenance board, Lady Victoria Shaft

At the National Mining Museum Scotland. The 'Automatic contrivance' is intriguing, a term apparently commonly used without a more specific name.

Robin Webster

Winding engine, Lady Victoria Shaft

At the National Mining Museum Scotland, at the former Lady Victoria colliery. One side of the steam engine, which no longer has a steam supply, but can be turned over electrically.

Robin Webster

Winding engine, Lady Victoria Shaft

At the National Mining Museum Scotland, at the former Lady Victoria colliery. One side of the steam engine, which no longer has a steam supply, but can be turned over electrically. The winding drum is behind the shield with the flag, the other half of the two cylinder engine is off to the left. The winding ropes, which originally passed through the high port in the end wall, have been removed.

Robin Webster

Winding drum and indicators, Lady Victoria Shaft

At the National Mining Museum Scotland, at the former Lady Victoria colliery. The winding ropes, which originally passed through the high port in the end wall, have been removed.

Robin Webster

Coal face machinery, National Mining Museum Scotland

The underground parts of Lady Victoria Colliery have been capped off, but a mock-up of what it is like underground has been made in one of the surface buildings.

Robin Webster

NCB No.21 West Ayr Area at the National Mining Museum Scotland, 2007

There is a view of this nearby in 1982 in very good external condition. Since then it had been neglected, and not until 2019 was something done about it. It was moved to the Bo'ness and Kinneil Railway for cosmetic restoration and returned in 2020. During the first move it was found that the wheel bearings had seized up, and considerable difficult was had in shunting it around. Hopefully 'cosmetic' extended to sorting that out.

Robin Webster

Tesco Superstore, Eskbank

Mike Pennington

Newtongrange Station

Peter Moore

Main Street, Newtongrange

Main Street from its junction with Lingerwood Road. In the foreground is one of the distinctive brick-built cottages of the 19th century mining village.

Jim Barton

Cafe on Main Street, Newtongrange

Cafe and takeaway business near the junction with Lingerwood Road.

Jim Barton

Picture Palace cinema commemoration, Newtongrange

Brickwork in the pavement at the junction of Lingerwood Road and Main Street commemorating the Picture Palace 1915 - 1961, first film Out of the Depths. It was situated across the road and the site is now occupied by a block of flats. There is a photograph of the cinema on the Canmore web page Link

(incorrectly titled as 4 Muirdean Road instead of Murderdean Road).

Jim Barton

Lane, Newtongrange

A lane between Fourth Street and Fifth Street in this 19th century mining village with a gridiron layout. Note the solar panels.

Jim Barton

Statue of a miner, Newtongrange

The plinth is inscribed 'Dedicated to All Mineworkers'.

Jim Barton

Newtongrange Library

The library in a small park next to the church.

Jim Barton

Winding wheel, Newtongrange

On display in front of the Leisure Centre to commemorate the coal mining industry here.

Jim Barton

Former coal conveyor, Newtongrange

This spans the A7 at the Lady Victoria Colliery, now the National Mining Museum. See NT3363 : Coal conveyor and National Mining Museum, Newtongrange for a view from the other end.

Jim Barton