The Strid & Strid Wood

The spectacular Strid is where the broad River Wharfe becomes suddenly narrow and the water rushes with great force. The Strid was formed by the wearing away of softer rock by the circular motion of small stones in hollows, forming a series of potholes which in time linked together to form a deep, water filled chasm. The Strid gets its name from the fact that it is said to be a Stride wide, but there is danger here. It is wider than it looks and the rocks are usually very slippy.

Dogs are welcome on a lead on all the woodland paths

The Strid is easily accessible from Sandholme car park. It is approximately a twenty minute walk through Strid Wood from the Cavendish Pavilion. This path is suitable for wheelchairs. Alternatively, the Strid can be accessed from Strid Wood car park. This route takes ten minutes, however, the path is uneven in places and terrain easy to moderate.

Enjoy the display of Bluebells from late April to early May.

This ancient woodland is a Site of Special Scientific Interest and one of the largest areas of acidic oak woodland in the Yorkshire Dales. It is renowned for the flora and fauna, particularly the carpets of bluebells in Spring. Follow the colour coded nature trails through the wood and relax and enjoy the view from one of the many carefully positioned seats. There are walks to suit all ages and abilities including the green trail. This popular trail which is suitable for wheelchairs follows the west bank of the River Wharfe from the Cavendish Pavilion to the Strid.

Sit back and enjoy the view.

Visitors are asked to keep their dogs on a lead whilst in the woods to avoid disturbing the animals and to prevent damage to the fragile woodland plants.