Dowgill Grange

In September 2019, we were delighted to acquire 44 acres of land called Dowgill Grange. This land adjoins Bank Woods, and has its own access from the B6165 just south of Summerbridge, Nidderdale.

It has a few mature trees, lots of fairly derelict dry stone walls, and wonderful stone field barn. We are working on a limited restoration during Winter ’23/’24, to prevent it falling down, and to maximise its potential for wildlife habitat.

During the planting season 2019/20, we planted 8,500 trees on approximately half the area.

Winter ’20/’21 saw the creation of our experimental ‘Super-hedge’. At the top of our land, we prepared a long strip of land for planting, and enclosed it with rabbit and deer fence. Inside we planted almost 6,000 shrubs and trees. They are arranged in five parallel, densely planted hedges. In time they will form a dense ‘thicket’ which will be fantastic habitat for birds and small mammals.

Our belted Galloway Cows, and some young Angus cattle lightly graze the rest.

Dowgill Grange is not open to the public. Clients with dedicated woodlands here can visit them by arrangement.

To Discover More…

To learn more about the site, its wildlife and our work, you can view the location on Restor here.

You can view the changes over time at Dowgill Grange below.