IT was 50 years ago when Skipton Castle Woods changed hands. The ancient woodland had been closed to the public for some time, and the then Skipton Urban Council hoped that the change of ownership would mean it being made open once again to the public.

A report in the Craven Herald of April, 1970 said: “Skipton Woods, which have for some years been closed to the public have been acquired by the owners of Skipton Castle, a company known as Skipton Castle Ltd.

“The new owners desire to develop the woods as a bird sanctuary with as wide a variety of birds as possible. “They are also prepared to negotiate with Skipton urban District Council about some form of public access, provided the vandalism aspect is suitably covered.

“Vandalism was given by the previous owners, who have operated through a local estate agent, as the reason why the woods were closed.

“For several years, Skipton Urban District Council have tried to negotiate a purchase of the woods, an attractive beauty spot, with a view to opening the area to the public.

“While the area was part of Lord Hothfield’s castle estate, there was open access and paths, fences, bridges and walls were maintained in excellent condition. These were the features which undoubtedly suffered in the period after the castle estate was broken up, and access was only available to ticket holders.”

These photographs from the Rowley-Ellwood collection, which is available online, show the aftermath of bad flooding in 1908.

Today, the woods are managed by the Woodland Trust. There has been a deal of improvement work over the last several months, including the installation of willow sculptures, including a much photographed huntress close to the entrance and a full size horse.

The round dam in the heart of the woodland is also a prime spot for the sighting of wildlife, such as kingfishers, where there is also a terrapin.

The woodland remains open during the current coronavirus pandemic, but with all events cancelled, and with visitors reminded to observe Government guidelines over social distancing.

Darren Moorcroft, chief executive of the Woodland Trust, said access to all of the trust’s sites was under constant review and in line with Government advice. “We are living in difficult and uncertain times. As our country faces up to the unprecedented impact of the coronavirus global pandemic.

“Everyone should take note of the Government’s latest health advice and stay home if required. But we know that spending time outside can be hugely beneficial for your wellbeing - especially through these worrying weeks and months. Our beautiful woods remain open to everyone, every day. Although we have had to cancel our organised events until at least May 31, we want you all to continue to enjoy the breathing spaces that woodland brings.

"Government advice recommends fresh air and exercise where possible and what better place to be than out in woodland at bluebell time? If you are not self-isolating I really recommend you find a wood near you to recharge your batteries and lift your spirits while taking note of social distancing advice. There’s room for everyone out in our woods.”

Photographs reproduced by kind permission of the Ellwood family, Mrs V. Rowley, and North Yorkshire County Council, Skipton Library www.rowleycollection.co.uk