Crimple Valley, Pannal to Spofforth

Good for: Birds, Butterflies, Mammals, Wildflowers

A mix of farmland, woodland and rough grassland surrounding Crimple Beck. The land is mostly privately owned, but a network of public footpaths runs through the valley.

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Parking

Parking with due consideration in Pannal village; Stone Rings Lane, Harrogate; Plompton Road, Follifoot; Spofforth village.

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Access

Access through St. Robert's Church, Pannal; footpath at the end of Stone Rings Lane; footpath at the road bridge, Plompton Road, Follifoot; footpath at the road bridge, Harrogate Road, Spofforth.

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Terrain

The terrain varies, often flat close to Crimple Beck but moderate slopes on the valley sides. The footpaths are often uneven and not ideal for those with limited mobility.

Habitat:

Grassland, Stream, Woodland

About the location

Birds around Crimple Beck include Kingfisher, Grey Wagtail, Dipper and Heron. The woodland areas hold various warblers and tits, Bullfinch, Tree Creeper, Nuthatch, Tawny Owl and Great-spotted Woodpecker. Red Kite, Buzzard and Kestrel are frequently seen soaring over the valley. Grassland butterflies include Gatekeeper, Meadow Brown, Ringlet, Orange Tip and Small Skipper, all of which are plentiful in season. The scattered Oaks often hold Purple Hairstreak. Mammals are less frequently observed, but include Roe Deer, Otter, Fox, Stoat and Weasel.