By George Howsen
It's strange how we describe the outside world as “the great outdoors” as though all of it was a large open prairie, when there are also beautiful areas that are in a way rather cozy. Take for instance, the topic of todays presentation. While Skipton woods most certainly fits the description of the great outdoors its lush greenery and almost omnipresent tree cover still manage to call to mind a sense of comfort. So I figure with everyone emerging from lockdown what better place to cover than the epitome of everything that has been off limits to us for the past year.
To start at the beginning, there are multiple different entrances to Skipton woods, but this one is by far the most popular, being situated a stones throw from Skipton Highstreet, it is by far the most used entry to the woods, also just across the street from a decent pie shop, if you are looking for something to nibble on that will last you the treck, or perhaps you just want to sit on the grass and sunbathe, both are viable options.
Moving further along you have one of the other major attractions of this area. That being Skipton castle. As rich with history as any castle you are liable to find In the UK. Including an infamous 3 years siege by the forces of Oliver Cromwell, in which the castle pub, which is more or less right next to it, played a vital role in keeping the defenders supplied. Today the castle is both a major tourist attraction as well as home to the Fattorini family, who inhabit the closed off sections of the grounds.
Moving deeper in we have probably the most recent editions to this woodland. This would be the two willow pieces commissioned by the woodland trust and Interpreted by the willow artist Anna Cross. The huntress is in fact one of two sculptures with the other being her mount, located slightly off the beaten path, further into the wood. exceedingly fitting for the location in which they find themselves, you can imagine my shock when I decide to take a walk around these woods for the first time in years and see this stood there. definitely a pleasant surprise.
One of my personal favorite features would have to be the lake, mostly likely due to nostalgia. It makes for both a breath taking view but also a potential location for bird watching. As it was not uncommon during the spring for things such as owls and herons to make their nest on the far side, although it may need some draining with the amount of algae coating the surface.
Another example of some aquatic attractions is one of the many waterfalls to be found around the woodland, while the largest of them leads directly onto private property and as such often gets blocked or otherwise dries up, this one flows year round (with the occasional exception of freezing over in winter).
Moving just up past the lake we have another of the woodlands trust commissions. A bench that manages to be both simple and elaborate, providing one of many places to rest your feet after having walked quite some distance already. The bench itself is also emblazoned with a short poem stretching from one end to the other that reminds those that care to read it to cherish this wood and the sanctuary it offers.
But what would a huntress be without her mount? the second of the aforementioned sculptures commissioned by the woodland trust, this one is a little more difficult to find, hidden among the trees and some ways off of the main trail, this has regrettably lead to what's known as a desire trail, which is a trail of erosion created by frequent foot traffic. These trails, while convenient and usually representing the shortest or easiest path between two points, can be harmful to the environment as it can lead the deterioration of soil quality, thus preventing plants from growing there and thereby negatively effect the animals they rely on them.
Of course there is also plenty to be had for florists as there is really no end to the variety of flowers to be found here, in addition to the above pictured blue bells. Although by far the most common at this time of year would be the abundance of wild garlic, which while aesthetically appealing is much less so in the department of smell. Or maybe not, my brother used to wonder round the woods at this time of year just to smell it, so I guess its down to personal preference.
I was debating including this one but it’s a view to be had from the woods so I reckon it passes. I feel that this one perfectly illustrates the verity of terrain you can expect on this walk, while there being trees and foliage galore, it's also bordered by canals and open planes, riddled with both flora and fauna, that while pleasant by themselves come together to create a truly picturesque scene
Coming at least to the conclusion our trek we have what (judging by this sign) was probably intended to be the beginning. Not long after this the trees break, you come to the bypass. A short walk from which will bring you to Skipton high street, and an even shorter walk from which will bring you back to our starting area. Having gone around this forest for the first time in years I can firmly say that I had forgotten exactly what a lovely walk it is (regardless of how many tourists it gets on sunny days like this one). Even on rainy days the shift in atmosphere is still perfectly pleasant if you can tolerate the mud. Going from serein and breathtaking to somber and contemplative. Ultimately, if you have the time there are few better walks I could suggest than a stroll through Skipton woods.