Dodd Wood
Dodd Wood, near Whinlatter Forest, towers high above Bassenthwaite Lake providing unrivalled views of Derwentwater to the south and to the hills of Dumfries and Galloway, especially from the summit.
Plan Around Dodd Wood
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Dodd Wood Details
Dodd Wood is leased from the Mirehouse Estate, and is on the east shore of Bassenthwaite Lake. Now managed by the Forestry Commission, the forest was created by Thomas Storey of Mirehouse in 1790. Some of the magnificent old trees can still be seen surrounding the car park and toilets. The car park is the starting point for several walks through the forest, described in a leaflet available from the Old Sawmill Tea Room. These range from short walks suitable for all, to a more ambitious walk to the summit of Dodd, from where spectacular views over Bassenthwaite and Derwentwater are laid out like a picture postcard. From here you can see 40 major peaks, the Solway Firth and the magnificent mountains of Galloway in a view covering some 500 square miles. In the spring each year Dodd Wood becomes the focus of attention for bird lovers waiting for the arrival of the Bassenthwaite Ospreys who can be seen from viewpoints in the forest. The lower viewpoint is open April to September between 10am and 5pm daily, and it is suggested that all visitors should make their way here first. From this viewpoint excellent views of the ospreys fishing over the lake can be seen, as well as the resident red squirrels, and a host of woodland birds. On visiting the lower viewpoint, the staff and volunteers will give you the information you require to get you safely to the upper viewpoint. Over the course of most days the Ospreys can be seen fishing, sitting, feeding, flying and washing. High powered telescopes and binoculars are provided but by all means bring your own. Grid Reference: NY 23542 28178 Address (near): A591, Keswick CA12 4QE, UK
Difficulty
Low
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Nearby Parks Around Dodd Wood
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Nearby Points of Interest Around Dodd Wood
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0.0 mi away
Mirehouse Historic House
Mirehouse is a beautiful example of a country manor house.
0.6 mi away
Skiddaw
Looming over the town of Keswick, Skiddaw mountain rises 3,054 feet and is prominent among the Northern Fells.
0.6 mi away
St Bega's Church
A beautiful little church with literary connections.
1.6 mi away
Keswick Climbing Wall
A great walk from the nearby town of Keswick.
2.9 mi away
Whinlatter Forest
Whinlatter, England's only true Mountain Forest, is home to stunning views, fantastic walks, exhilarating mountain biking, rare wildlife and adventure play.
