Norwood and Folly Hall Wood

Folly Hall Wood SE190515

This is a small wood, mainly oak and birch, some two-thirds of a mile below Swinsty dam adjacent to the river. There is one public footpath running through it.

This is a spring/summer stronghold for Pied Flycatchers and Redstart the former having assisted by nest boxes. Both species may also be commonly heard/seen along either side of the river at this point.

Sword Point SE198516

This site is on Jack Hill Lane near to where the road takes a sharp bend to the east of Folly Hall Wood. More than anything else this is a wonderful viewpoint - probably the best in the Washburn Valley, taking in the view to the north and west over to Wharfedale. From here anything flying along the valley can be seen and often with good views given the height at which the observer is standing - definitely a place to linger.

In spring/summer the site is good for Tree Pipit which make good use of the wires running just south-east of the road. Meadow Pipit are also present. Linnet and Goldfinch are common here at this time of year as are Kestrel utilising the wind above the valley side, Curlew and Mistle Thrush are likely to be seen well. Aside from these highlighted species, many others are possible from this viewpoint for the patient observer.