Hows Wood

Our Land>

Hows Wood is situated in upper Eskdale and covers 20 acres (8 hectares). We bought the wood from the Forestry Commission in 1987 to restore the ancient native woodland and as a way of showcasing the way forward for managing woodlands. With the assistance of a Woodland Grant from the Forestry Commission the conifers were removed in 1994. The boundaries were restored to keep out livestock and deer by re-building the dry stone walls; a Bark Peelers Hut was conserved and a circular walk waymarked.

Reasons to visit:

A gentle stroll in a peaceful wood at any time of the year
Springtime bluebells
You might get to hear the distinctive sound of a cuckoo in summer
Great views of Harter Fell and Hardknott Pass from the viewing platform
A glimpse into the past with the remains of a bark peeler’s hut
Combine a walk in the woods with a trip on L’al Ratty railway
Best time to visit: July/August

Virtual Tour

Pay a virtual visit to Hows Wood with an aerial 360 degree panorama. Explore the woodland, find out about its history since our purchase of the site in 1987, our work in the woodland, our achievements and our plans for the future of this wonderful little wood.

Directions

More information

Hows Wood Walk leaflet (pdf)

Latest

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Join our workparty for woodland work at Hows Wood, Eskdale. Tree staking, path clearance, branch lopping and coppicing, walling if needed.

Land Management

We own and manage land across Cumbria and the Lake District. This work is coordinated by our property manager Jan Darrall. Read more about our work in her Land Manager's Diary detailing the amazing work carried out by our volunteers and providing updates on site visits, events and our plans for the future.
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Volunteering

Learn new skills and join our army of volunteers helping us to make a practical difference to the Lake District all year round.
Join Today

Play your part in protecting the Lake District by becoming a member today.
Our Purpose

We are an independent charity and the only membership organisation dedicated to protecting and enhancing Cumbria's landscapes for future generations
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Situated near Oxenholme, just south east of Kendal, and although not a very high hill at 185m, it gives beautiful views.
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Love the Lake District? Become a member of Friends of the Lake District and join thousands of people enjoying and protecting it.
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High Borrowdale

High Borrowdale is situated 8.5 miles north of Kendal. The best way to access it is from the A6, south of Shap. There is open access at all times. Take a VIRTUAL TOUR