Did you know...
The wood is one of only four places in north east England where greater tussock-sedge grows.
Hedley Hall appeal, Tyne & Wear
Your donations saved this angel in the north - and the ancient woodland, rare plants and wildlife that call it home.
More ancient woodland is now in our care
We already owned a large part of Hedley Hall, but now, thanks to your help and that of other generous funders, its remaining 12 acres of precious ancient woodland, along with 47 acres of neighbouring farmland, is now in Woodland Trust care.
Credit: Peter Preece / WTML
Brimming with wildlife
At the foot of the valley, called Ridley Gill, is a fast-flowing stream, surrounded by banks of wild garlic, wood sorrel and bluebells. Woodpeckers hammer on trunks, tawny owls and redstarts take cover in the trees, and kestrels can be spied overhead.
Credit: Jo Harrop
Full of precious habitats
This spectacular Site of Special Scientific Interest (SSSI) in Tyne and Wear is also known for its rare greater tussock-sedge and unusual wet flushes. It’s a little piece of paradise, just fifteen minutes’ drive from Newcastle.
Visit for yourself
The future of Hedley Hall
We're now working to protect and enhance the new areas in our care. Our plans include:
- planting more trees to buffer and protect the ancient woodland
- improving paths to make it more accessible for visitors
- clearing shotgun pellets and grain tubs from shooting activities
- removing invasive rhododendron and Himalayan balsam
- adding signage and interpretation to help people explore.
You make our work possible
We can't do any of this without you. We have thousands more special woods like Hedley Hall, all over the UK, which we work tirelessly to care for and restore.
Your donation will help us keep woods open for people to enjoy and wildlife to thrive in, whatever you can give.