Back to nature in our woodland

We have approximately 29 acres of natural and ancient woodland comprising of Oak, Birch, Holly, Beech, Ash, etc. The woodland is generally left alone to develop and grow on its own. Fallen branches are left to slowly decay as these are a haven for insect life which in turn make a plentiful source of food for birds living in the wood.

There are numerous paths in the wood which Helme Pasture guests and their pets are free to use and explore. All we ask is that nothing is damaged or left, apart from footprints, as you explore.

Ancient settlements used to be present in our wood, evidence of which can be seen in remains of several stone camp enclosures under the canopy of the trees. Cup and ring marks can be found locally, although we have yet to find any within our wood, but you never know!

Around May each year, our native english bluebells wake up and form a sea of blue over large areas of our woodland

There's evidence of stone age encampments within our wood, although nature has hidden them well

Rocky outcrops can be found within our woodlands similar to those found at National Trusts Brimham Rocks a mile away, although not quite to their scale!

Holly hedging along part of a footpath, made by the NAOB volunteers

Many years ago, Yorkshire Water had a pump house to pump water around the area - long since abandoned but nature hasn't yet fully reclaimed it

One of many small tracks which can be found within our woodland

Sustainability and wildlife

A few times a year we have a team of volunteers from the Nidderdale Area of Outstanding Beauty (NAOB) who tidy up areas which need attention, create further ‘pockets’ for insects to inhabit and ensure footpaths remain in good condition.

In addition to this, we have around 30 bird boxes situated around the woodland for various species of bird to make use of. When in use, these are checked and occupant species, eggs laid, and chicks present are recorded and added to a nationwide database to help reflect current bird numbers, locations and population density in the UK.

Although very variable, the mammals which can be seen in our woods include roe deer, badgers, foxes, grey squirrels, rabbits, stoats, weasels etc. There are lots of hidden areas which can be used for cover whilst quietly watching the wildlife pass by.

We are especially grateful to all the NAOB volunteers and organisers who give their time to help develop and promote the land and wildlife within Nidderdale.