Visiting Fishpond Wood
To give people the chance to benefit from the peace and tranquillity to be found at Fishpond Wood we have opened it to the public.
As well as the public rights of way that run through the wood there are a number of permissive footpaths that allow visitors to enjoy greater access around the pond and to the icehouse.
Getting here
Visitors coming from distance by car are invited to use the public car park in Pateley Bridge and walk (about half a mile) over the bridge, left at the Royal Oak, through Bewerley village and look out for the iron gate on the right just before Peat Lane (What3Words – upsetting.strutted.flirts). There is a similar iron gate at the western approach to the woods, off Peat Lane, just after the ford/bridge and Paradise Farm (What3Words – award.treatment.fixtures).
Limited car parking is available on site for pre-arranged visits.
Visitors with mobility difficulties are invited to ring 07860 599082 or info@whitewoodswellbeing.co.uk to discuss needs and possible use of parking near the entrance, from the track off Peat Lane (What3Words – consults.cafe.glance). From the track, access as far as the pond, ice house and study barn is possible for wheelchairs and mobility scooters but able-bodied attendance is strongly advised as surfaces and slopes can be tricky. Much of the rest of the site is hilly, rocky, wooded and challenging, which is part of its attraction.
There is reasonable mobile phone and 4G network coverage across the site.
There is a wide variety of B&B accommodation within walking distance of the wood. Look on line.
The gate on the right is one of the entrances to Fishpond Wood.
Access
Please keep to the public and permissive paths unless part of an organised activity with us, and keep dogs on a lead. Peace and quiet are among the attractions, so please be sensitive to wildlife, ground-nesting birds, plants and other users. This is a working woodland so there may be some woodland management activity going on. Cycling, motorcycling and horse riding are not permitted except on the access track to the farms and kennels higher up.
Audio Trail
Working with the Upper Nidderale Landscape Partnership we have created an Audio Trail covering the fascinating history of Fishpond Wood.
Details of the Audio Trail can be found on the Upper Nidderdale Landscape Partnership website. (Follow the link below)
Study Barn
A recent development is an off-grid wooden study barn. It has room inside for around 12 adults or 16 children, though smaller groups and pairs are the norm.
It is built on a hexagonal pattern to reflect the six ways to wellbeing. On five sides there is an overhanging verandah which allows fresh air activities in inclement weather. There is a mobility-access flushing toilet on the sixth side. A large log-burning stove provides heat in cold seasons. Solar power provides light and phone or laptop recharging (bring your charger) but there is no power for cooking or hot water so bring your own picnic and flasks. The barn is essentially a base from which to enjoy the woodland environment.
Individuals and small groups are welcome to book the study barn for their own use via info@whitewoodswellbeing.co.uk or by telephoning 07860599082.