Barkbooth Lot Nature Reserve

This nature reserve, part-owned and managed by Cumbria Wildlife Trust, consists of rough fell and a spectacular bluebell woodland which is a must-see sight in April and May, when a blue carpet entices you through the woodland. The woodland is predominantly oak and birch with ash, rowan and sycamore over stunning carpets of bluebells with bracken and billberry. Alder dominates in wetter areas and along the course of Arndale Beck. The wood has been fenced to deer to allow natural regeneration. Dead wood, both fallen and standing, is purposefully left to create habitat for invertebrates and birds. Bird species recorded include great spotted and green woodpeckers, nuthatch, buzzard, tits and warblers. Hawfinches are regularly seen on the woodland edge. Good paths wind their way around the nature reserve, enabling you to experience this woodland haven with the minimal of disturbance to the wildlife found here.