Grass Wood Nature Reserve

A small part of the existing reserve at Grass Wood was purchased in 1972 by the Trust from a private forestry concern. In time two other small areas were leased at Dewbottom Scar and Far Gregory for several years, until the Trust then purchased them and the remaining area of Grass Wood in 1983. The reserve has history dating back further than that however as Far Gregory was the site of Brigantian Fort established against the Roman invasion. Evidence of an Iron Age settlement can also be seen near Park Stile.

The reserve itself is a classic example of an ash woodland with a hazel understorey. The ground flora found here is extremely rich and diverse, growing in some places on exposed limestone terraces and open area. Plants that you may discover at Grass Wood include the delicate lily-of-the-valley, bloody crane’s-bill and burnet rose. There are also species indicative of ancient woodland growing such as wood sorrel and yellow pimpernel. Some alien species grow such as conifers which were planted under previous ownership. The reserve is also notable for its wealth of fungi.
Directions

The reserve is one mile north of Grassington in Wharfedale. It lies alongside the Grassington to Conistone minor road. Roadside parking places can be found near the wood and at the old quarry car park. There are many permissive paths and one public right-of-way, which enable visitors to walk freely and enjoy the rich wildlife. For the sake of the wood’s future you are respectfully asked to keep to the main routes.