Argill Woods

A tranquil steep sided wooded valley with waterfalls and pools where dippers and pied flycatchers can be seen. On the limestone soils you will find ash and birch woodland along with wild garlic and dog's mercury. On the more neutral soils, oak and birch are the main tree species with bluebell and wood sorrel. The woodland clearings come alive in summer with wildflowers. Look out for the handsome melancholy thistle and orchids such as greater butterfly orchid, fragrant orchid and common and heath spotted orchids. Over many millennia Argill Beck has carved this steep-sided valley as it winds its way from Stainmore to the River Eden 12km to the west.