Nature Reserve
Half
of the 450 acres (182ha) of parkland and gardens
became a National Nature Reserve in 1994 to protect
the mature hardwood trees which are home to a large
number of scarce wood-feeding beetles and the birds
which feed on them. The reserve is managed with
English Nature who record each tree, and over 2000 oak, beech,
lime and field maple saplings have been planted
during the last 10 years creating a haven for wildlife.
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A
view over the tree tops with Helmsley in the distance. |
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The
reserve is 'a refuge from the ''Wilde Wood'' which covered
much of the country in the 16th century and most of the trees
are over 250 years old. Some of England's oldest and tallest
trees benefit from the protection.
These great, gnarled veterans with their dead and dying
limbs, rot holes and hollow trunks are living national treasures
and part of our heritage'.
The reserve is managed in conjunction with Natural England.
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