Scarcroft Plantation

Scarcroft Plantation lies on a gently sloping site within the village of Scarcroft. Residential properties border on the north and south sides of the wood, with a golf course to the west and Wetherby Road (A58) to the east.

There is a small of woodland on the southern side immediately adjacent to the houses, and to the north adjacent to the golf course. This section is not owned by the Woodland Trust, but can be considered the ‘same wood’.

The woodland comprises of mixed broadleaved species and a varied age structure. The main tree species are birch and oak with rowan, sycamore and beech also present. These species are regenerating naturally with many young seedlings throughout the woodland. The majority of trees are in the 40-60 year age range, with a number of fully mature beeches of approximately 150 years plus throughout the site.

Woodland Walk

There is a little trail  that you can follow to get to a mossy rocks and rills area, as well as an old sundial. In the middle of the wood, you’ll also find a beautiful memorial to firefighters. This woodland is all about variety, with small pockets of different types of trees, as well as broadleaf plants like Bluebells,  Dawn Horsetail, and Fescue.

Paths are quite uneven and would be tricky for those less confident with walking. However the loop path is perfect for a short stroll.

Look at the Flowers and Fauna

Although a fairly small woods, compared to others in Leeds – there is plenty to look at! Bluebells, Foxglobe, Willowherb to name a few.

This is a smaller wood located in the centre of the city of Leeds, which has a really lovely green space around it. It once was part of the Scarcroft family estate and dates back to the 17th century. It consists mainly of Sweet Chestnut and Hazel trees, but also has Ash and Oak.

The woods was originally owned privately, and then donated to the Woodland Trust in December of 1995.

Just up the road you will find the Inn At Scarcroft. A friendly country pub serving a range of hearty favourites and country pub classics. They also have a decent selection of ales, wines and gins. With a sizable beer garden, or comfy seating by the fire – they make a good end to a walk in the woods!

There is no on-site parking. However there is a small amount of road side parking.

We would suggest either The Firs or somewhere along Ling Lane – then walk around to the woods.

The entrances are open gateways. The wood contains a circular footpath of approximately 300m in length which is rough and uneven in places. The site is generally flat.

We believe the woods are accessible when there hasn’t been any rain, but would not recommend wheelchair or pushchair use after rain as the area can get fairly muddy.