Wildlife & Nature of Northcliffe

Are you a nature lover looking for a peaceful getaway? Look no further than Northcliffe Woods in West Yorkshire, where the beauty of broadleaved woodland awaits you. Many of the remaining woodlands in the area are nestled in steep-sided ravines, making them a haven for a diverse range of flora and fauna.

While the woodland has not always been present on the site of Northcliffe, it was replanted in the early nineteenth century and today boasts a variety of oak, sycamore, birch, holly, and beech trees. With over 100 species of flowering plants and ferns, including bluebells, wood anemones, and cuckoo-pint, the wood is a treasure trove waiting to be explored.

If you’re visiting Northcliffe Woods in the autumn, don’t miss the opportunity to admire the vast array of fungi that can be found on logs and amongst the leaves. Although some may be edible, we recommend leaving them where you find them to ensure their survival and to avoid the risk of picking something poisonous.

Thanks to the efforts of Friends of Northcliffe and the West Yorkshire Bat Group, the wood is now home to a range of bird and bat boxes, providing essential nesting and roosting sites for a variety of species. Meanwhile, the recreation of the pond has helped to restore the wood’s natural habitat.

The grassed areas of the park have undergone a recent change of management, allowing meadow flowers to grow and creating a better habitat for insects, birds, and animals. With four suggested walks around Northcliffe Park and a list of birds to spot, there’s plenty to keep visitors of all ages entertained. Be sure to check out the Photo Gallery for a glimpse of the diverse wildlife that calls Northcliffe home!