Forest of Leeds - Gledhow & Gipton

Description : Gledhow Valley Woods This site is formed on two sides of a moderately steep valley. The current tree population was originally planted in the 19th and early 20th centuries to meet local industrial needs.

The area has considerable nature conservation value and a diverse mosaic of habitats including streams, wet flushes, a lake, grass, scrub and deadwood habitats. The screening and security of adjacent properties is an important function of these woods and all management operations are targeted to meet the needs of this sensitive area.

The Friends of Gledhow Valley Woods was formed by members of the local community who have a particular interest in preserving and managing this valuable woodland. Regular meetings are held to discuss management issues and advice is sought from various organisations such as the Forest of Leeds at Leeds City Council, conservation groups and other interested parties.

There are several remnants of what was Gledhow Hall Estate, including the old carriage drive, lake and bath house, now a listed building which can be found at the extreme southern end of the valley.

Gipton Woods An ancient woodland dating back to 655 AD, the juvenile to mature tree species that can be predominantly found are oak, sycamore, beech and hornbeam.

At the southern end of Oakwood Drive, Gipton, late prehistoric enclosed settlements have been located and registered as ancient monuments by English Heritage. They are thought to date back to the Romano-British period (c. 1000BC - 400AD) and while one is only partial, the other remaining monument has been discovered in its entirety. Together, they make an important contribution to the understanding of late prehistoric settlements and land use in northern England.

An active local community group, The Friends of Gipton Wood, are working in partnership with Leeds City Council to maintain and enhance the site as a valuable amenity.

Access and facilities : Multiple access points for pedestrians are found throughout the boundary of Gledhow Valley Woods.

There is free public access to Gipton Wood for pedestrians along Roundhay Road, Oakwood Boundary Road, Gipton Wood Road and Copgrove Road.