Baskell Wood

Wood, Forest in Lancashire South Lakeland

England

Baskell Wood

Remains of wooden ballast bin Only a few rotten pieces of wood remain from this ballast bin beside the former Furness Railway Coniston Branch near Moss Side. Built from old wooden railway sleepers it is difficult to place an age on this ballast bin, but it is possible it pre-dates the formation of the London Midland and Scottish Railway in 1923 who later introduced concrete bins (see photograph <a href="https://www.geograph.org.uk/photo/6797992">NY2924 : LMS Standard Concrete Ballast Bin</a>).
Positioned approximately every mile, more frequently on curved track, ballast bins were used to store small stone chippings which were used by the railway Lengthsmen to pack and adjust the railway sleepers. Using only a jack and a shovel, an experienced Lengthsman could judge exactly the right quantity of chippings to use to obtain a perfect ‘top’ to the rail and they often took great pride in the quality of their work.
The Coniston Branch closed to passengers in October 1958 and to all traffic with effect from the 30 April 1962 although the last train had run during the preceding week. The track bed in front of the ballast bin is deep in mud and trampled by cows. — Remains of wooden ballast bin Credit: Adrian Taylor

Baskell Wood is a picturesque woodland located in Lancashire, England. Covering an area of approximately 100 acres, this enchanting forest is a popular destination for nature lovers and outdoor enthusiasts. Situated in the heart of the county, the wood is easily accessible and attracts visitors from all around.

The woodland is primarily composed of native deciduous trees, such as oak, beech, and birch, which provide a rich and diverse habitat for a wide range of flora and fauna. Walking through Baskell Wood, one can encounter a variety of wildflowers, including bluebells, primroses, and wood anemones, which carpet the forest floor during springtime.

The wood is also home to several species of birds, including woodpeckers, owls, and thrushes, which can be heard chirping and singing in the treetops. Squirrels and rabbits are commonly spotted scurrying among the undergrowth, adding to the woodland's charm.

For those seeking tranquility and solitude, Baskell Wood offers numerous peaceful walking trails, where visitors can immerse themselves in the natural beauty of their surroundings. The dappled sunlight filtering through the tree canopy creates a magical atmosphere, making it a perfect place for a leisurely stroll or a family picnic.

Moreover, the wood is well-maintained and cared for by local authorities, ensuring the preservation of its natural beauty for future generations. Baskell Wood is not only a haven for wildlife but also a cherished recreational spot for locals and tourists alike, providing a serene escape from the hustle and bustle of everyday life.

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Baskell Wood Images

Images are sourced within 2km of 54.304213/-3.1673488 or Grid Reference SD2490. Thanks to Geograph Open Source API. All images are credited.

Remains of wooden ballast bin

Only a few rotten pieces of wood remain from this ballast bin beside the former Furness Railway Coniston Branch near Moss Side. Built from old wooden railway sleepers it is difficult to place an age on this ballast bin, but it is possible it pre-dates the formation of the London Midland and Scottish Railway in 1923 who later introduced concrete bins (see photograph NY2924 : LMS Standard Concrete Ballast Bin). Positioned approximately every mile, more frequently on curved track, ballast bins were used to store small stone chippings which were used by the railway Lengthsmen to pack and adjust the railway sleepers. Using only a jack and a shovel, an experienced Lengthsman could judge exactly the right quantity of chippings to use to obtain a perfect ‘top’ to the rail and they often took great pride in the quality of their work. The Coniston Branch closed to passengers in October 1958 and to all traffic with effect from the 30 April 1962 although the last train had run during the preceding week. The track bed in front of the ballast bin is deep in mud and trampled by cows.

Adrian Taylor

Kirkby Pool

Adrian Taylor

Lane near Brookside

The lane is a public footpath leading to Buttstead Wood.

Adrian Taylor

Stile beside Buttstead Wood

The public footpath from The Hill to Woodland crosses this stile adjacent to Buttstead Wood. There is an Ordnance Survey rivet benchmark with cut mark on the bottom stone step of the stile (detail photograph SD2389 : Benchmark, Buttstead Wood).

Adrian Taylor

Benchmark, Buttstead Wood

Detail of the Ordnance Survey rivet benchmark with cut mark on the horizontal bottom step of a public footpath stile adjacent to Buttstead Wood. The benchmark marks a height of 8.6076m above mean sea level (Ordnance Datum Newlyn) last verified in 1954 (location photograph SD2389 : Stile beside Buttstead Wood).

Adrian Taylor

Lane entrance near Brookside

Leading from the road near Brookside the lane leads to Buttstead Wood and carries a public footpath to Low Rosthwaite. There is an Ordnance Survey rivet benchmark on the top of the low stone post partially hidden in the brambles to the left of the footpath signpost (photograph SD2389 : Rivet benchmark near Brookside).

Adrian Taylor

Rivet benchmark near Brookside

Detail of an Ordnance Survey rivet benchmark on the top of a low stone post near Brookside. The benchmark marks a height of 11.0246m above mean sea level (Ordnance Datum Newlyn) last verified in 1972 (location photograph SD2389 : Lane entrance near Brookside).

Adrian Taylor

Woodland path near Latter Rigg

Adrian Taylor

Road Junction

P Gaskell

Ringhouse Farm and Cottages, Lake District

This is Ringhouse Farm and its associated cottages which are available for rent (google 'em for details). Ideally situated for access to the south lakes and beyond and plenty of walks from the farm if you don't feel like getting into the car.

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