Wheelings Wood is a very attractive mixed woodland which has evolved to incorporate a wide variety of habitats and species. A section of maturing Scots pine interspersed with holly regrowth gives way to a more open area of well-spaced larch. A large pond with a small island lies in a marshy area supporting its own unique ecosystem. The pond is shared with a neighbouring woodland. To the south, the ground rises gently, giving a home to some native varieties including beech, gorse and silver birch.

Numerous clear flat areas invite overnight camping excursions for an overnight stopover, sharing the space with woodland residents, deer, badger and fox.

Conservationists and naturalists will find much to catch their attention. A spectrum of birdlife from robin to jay, from woodcock to buzzard rewards a patient watcher. A wide range of native wildflowers includes honeysuckle, bramble and foxglove. A small orchard has been planted, and a regular harvest of apples, plums and damsons can be picked as the seasons dictate.

A large static caravan with decking and a pergola roof has been placed in the wood to facilitate the management and enjoyment of the wood. The caravan is in excellent condition and is well equipped, including gas heaters and cooking facilities. It should be noted that the caravan has no permission for permanent residential occupation. Two further caravans and a small shipping container are ideal for the storage of tools and equipment.

A wood with many features, to be simply enjoyed and left to its own devices, or to be managed and encouraged to widen its diversity.

Well worth a closer inspection, turn my printed words into a living, breathing experience of nature and all it has to offer.

The woods at Dilston were formerly part of the estate of the Radcliffes of nearby Dilston Hall. Now serving as a much more useful Cambian Mental Health further education college, the hall was built to rival nearby 18th-century mansions but was never completed. At the outbreak of the Jacobite Rebellion, work was suspended, never to be resumed. All that remains are the ruins of Dilston Castle, situated on the banks of the Devil's Water, a lively tributary of the River Tyne.

Surrounding Area: Wheelings Wood is part of a larger area of woodland which runs down to the River Tyne. The Tyne is considered to be England's best salmon river which together with sea trout runs gives the opportunity for excellent fishing. This is a quiet rural setting with many public footpaths with good walking. Nearby is Hadrian's Wall with the more challenging Hadrian's Wall Long Distance Path.

The attractive market towns of Hexham with its historic abbey and Roman Corbridge lie a short drive away. Rowing and canoeing are popular from Tyne Green riverside park.

Click HERE to see free OS maps.