Derwent Gorge & Muggleswick Woods National Nature Reserve

Recommended by

Overview

The Derwent Gorge and Muggleswick Woods NNR contains some of the finest ancient sessile oak woodlands in the northeast of England, as well as some unique semi-natural grasslands. The woodland types found here range from dry, acid sessile oak woods on the higher ground, to the flushed lime-rich ash woodland and wet alder woodland on the lower slopes. This variety of woodland creates a rich diversity of flora and fauna. The reserve is recognised as regionally important for tree-growing lichens, with over 60 species recorded. Red kites and buzzards are often seen gliding above the canopy, with spotted and pied flycatcher, redpoll, siskins and wood warblers flitting around within the woods. Dippers, kingfishers and goosanders frequent the River Derwent and its tributaries, while historically the site has had populations of red squirrel and the secretive roe deer are still found in the woods.

Location

Muggleswick

About the area

County Durham reaches halfway across England, from the North Pennines in the west, to the sea in the east. Much of it is very sparsely inhabited, and is naturally beautiful; a mix of rolling hills, monumental valleys, lush farmland and unforgiving moors.

Area image

Derwent Gorge & Muggleswick Woods National Nature Reserve

Muggleswick

01833 622374

Look for the VisitEngland award symbols on our visitor attractions – it means you’re in for a memorable and great day out.

Read more about our ratings

Derwent Gorge & Muggleswick Woods National Nature Reserve

Recommended by

Overview

The Derwent Gorge and Muggleswick Woods NNR contains some of the finest ancient sessile oak woodlands in the northeast of England, as well as some unique semi-natural grasslands. The woodland types found here range from dry, acid sessile oak woods on the higher ground, to the flushed lime-rich ash woodland and wet alder woodland on the lower slopes. This variety of woodland creates a rich diversity of flora and fauna. The reserve is recognised as regionally important for tree-growing lichens, with over 60 species recorded. Red kites and buzzards are often seen gliding above the canopy, with spotted and pied flycatcher, redpoll, siskins and wood warblers flitting around within the woods. Dippers, kingfishers and goosanders frequent the River Derwent and its tributaries, while historically the site has had populations of red squirrel and the secretive roe deer are still found in the woods.

Location

Muggleswick

About the area

Area image

County Durham reaches halfway across England, from the North Pennines in the west, to the sea in the east. Much of it is very sparsely inhabited, and is naturally beautiful; a mix of rolling hills, monumental valleys, lush farmland and unforgiving moors.

Explore County Durham