Baal Hill Wood

Baal Hill, a site of Special Scientific Interest, is a surviving relic of ancient woodland which is steeped in heritage. It was owned in the fourteenth century by the Prince Bishops of Durham and the Bishop's Oak, an impressive veteran oak tree thought to be over four hundred years old, is situated at the northern end of the site. Originally upland oak and birch woodland, the site now has significant areas of birch and also some exotic species such as giant redwoods and monkey puzzle. This beautiful semi-natural woodland is perhaps best seen in spring, with bluebells and wild garlic in flower. Bird life is varied with wood warblers, redstarts and pied flycatchers, as well as woodcock and buzzard. Roe deer are frequently seen throughout the woodland.