Judy Woods

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Quick description

What’s there?

Judy Woods in its entirety is the largest continuous public woodland area in the district.

Situated in south Bradford, Judy Woods is the collective name given to the largest woodland site managed by the City of Bradford MDC in the south of the district. The wooded area comprises Judy Wood, Old Hanna Wood, Low Wood, Doctor Wood, and Royds Hall Great Wood. These names reflect prominent people and landscape uses in the local area over several centuries.

Visitors walking through Judy Woods will be welcomed by the towering beech trees that can be found at the south end of Station Road. With many pathways kept in good condition, visitors can explore the streams as they wind in and out of the branches and converge in the beck lying in the depths of the wood.

History

Coal mining

Although appearing natural and calm these days, there is a rich history of coal mining throughout the local area, including the woodland site. The underlying geology of the site is Coal Measures, unlike the majority of the Bradford area’s Gritstone, and the landscape reflects this with areas of woodland interspersed with agricultural land of large fields and hedgerows set in relatively low rolling hills. The wood itself bears testimony to the mining past of this area, with numerous bell pit sites and small spoil heaps. In the 19th century, much of the area was owned by the Low Moor Iron Company, and their tramroads and embankments are also visible and an essential part of the area’s industrial heritage.

Natural history

Wildlife

A visit to Judy Woods at any time of year will result in wildlife sightings. The mature woodlands are home to numerous species, and the neighbouring farmland provides additional buffering habitat. In summer, visitors should watch for foraging bats near the edge of the woods and fieldfares feeding in open pastures during winter.

Fallow deer can be incredibly difficult to see but are often grazing amongst the trees.

Bees

Numerous species of pollinators are attracted to hawthorn flowers. Solitary bees, as shown here, account for over 90% of UK bee species.

Trees

Approximately two centuries ago, the northern British native trees that occupied the area were replaced with beech trees and sycamore trees along the borders.

Resources

Visit the Friends of Judy Woods website for more information on park facilities and history: http://www.judywoods.org.uk/