Dalby Forest
Dalby Forest is known as the Great
Yorkshire Forest. It is situated on the
southern slopes of the North Yorkshire National Park, close to the
picturesque village of Thornton le Dale. The forest covers about 8000
acres and comprises of coniferous and deciduous trees. Dalby Forest has
something to offer all year round. Whatever the season, whatever the
weather, there are plenty of things to see and do within the forest
bounds.
Whilst to the north the forest sits on an upland plateau, the southern part of the forest is divided by a number of valleys known as a "rigg and dale" landscape. Many of the woodland trees are pine but there are a wide number of native broadleaf trees such as ash, alder, beech, hazel and oak throughout the forest. There are also many wild flower species to be found all year round.
Wild life flourishes in this forest
setting. Dalby Forest is home to crossbills and nightjars as well as
the more usual finches, woodpeckers and jays. There are many
ny
roe deer families living in the forest and badgers are very common,
although being nocturnal are seen less frequently. A better way to be
sure of spotting this forest symbol is to sign up for Badger Watching,
organised by the Forestry Commission.
The outstanding landscape that makes up Dalby Forest was formed in the Ice Age and has been worked since the Bronze Age. Burial mounds, earthworks and rabbit warrens provide plenty of interest for historical exploration.
All year round, Dalby Forest has something for everyone. Whether you prefer the gentle spring, glorious summer, colourful autumn or crisp quiet winter, you will find tranquillity and calm in this wonderful natural resource. 55km of new mountain bike trails are waiting to be discovered, and the Cycling mecca of Dixons Hollow is there to be mastered. With the Go Ape treetop walk just 1/2 mile from your lodge, and Purple Mountain Bike hire ready to provide a welcome break, a trip to Langdale Quest in the next forest will round off a busy week in the North Riding Forest Park.
All year round, Dalby Forest has something for everyone. Whether you prefer the gentle spring, glorious summer, colourful autumn or crisp quiet winter, you will find tranquillity and calm in this wonderful natural resource. 55km of new mountain bike trails are waiting to be discovered, and the Cycling mecca of Dixons Hollow is there to be mastered. With the Go Ape treetop walk just 1/2 mile from your lodge, and Purple Mountain Bike hire ready to provide a welcome break, a trip to Langdale Quest in the next forest will round off a busy week in the North Riding Forest Park