Rabbitbank Wood

A quiet and secluded retreat, with a mix of interesting and varied habitats.

Location

Rabbitbank Wood Nature Reserve
Consett
DH8 9EJ

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A static map of Rabbitbank Wood

Know before you go

Size
7 hectares
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Entry fee

Free

Public transport

The reserve is not readily accessible by public transport. Private transportation is recommended.
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Parking information

There is limited roadside parking

Grazing animals

Cattle and sheep graze this nature reserve.

Walking trails

Access

Access and parking
The reserve entrance is 350m south of Low Farm, Knitsley down the narrow winding Knitsley Lane. The reserve lies to the west of the road where there is limited roadside parking for two cars. Access the reserve over the roadside stile and public footpath.

Dogs

On a lead

When to visit

Opening times

Open at all times.

Best time to visit

March to September

About the reserve

This varied site consists of oak woodland, marsh, willow carr and species rich wet pasture. The under-storey consists of large amounts of holly and hazel with a ground flora that is distinctive of acid woodland, including bluebells, foxgloves and cow-wheat.

In wetter areas meadowsweet, marsh marigold, cuckooflower and marsh valerian thrive.

There is a wide range of woodland birds and mammals and the areas of wet pasture provide good summer habitat for butterflies.

Although it is off the beaten track, Rabbitbank Wood is definitely worth a visit at any time of year.

Accessibility and facilities

Terrain: Moderate
Access to the site is over a stile and the ground is wet for much of the year.

Contact us

Durham Wildlife Trust
Contact number: 0191 584 3112
Contact email: mail@durhamwt.co.uk

Environmental designation

Ancient Woodland
County Wildlife Site