The barrier is down, draining off is complete and the hard and heavy maintenance and forestry work is underway!

Closing week has been a glorious mixture of stunning skies and sunsets, a few mild days interspersed with heavy mists and a distinct drop in temperature. It is at this time of year that the work can begin to ensure that Warren Forest is beautiful to return to in the spring.

In addition to all the hard work, it does give us a little more opportunity as a family to take a break from reception and enjoy the local attractions as much as our holiday home owners do during the season. With this in mind, Lee and I took the opportunity to visit Fountains Abbey and Studley Royal Water Gardens. We are so lucky to have this World Heritage Site on our doorstep and it was particularly spectacular on a bright autumn day! Being National Trust members enables us to visit here and park for free as often as we like. With it being only a short drive from Warren Forest, it is one of our favourite places to spend time.

If you are missing Nidderdale and want to visit the area during the winter months, there are many bed & breakfasts and hotels in the area to suit all tastes and budgets. In Pateley Bridge alone there is the beautifully refurbished Grassfield Hall which offers luxury and comfort. Lyndale Bed & Breakfast on the High Street is really popular with walkers at all times of year, if you want to travel a little further there is the Country House Hotel The Sportsman’s Arms! We know that many of you already enjoy the Boars Head at Ripley and Nidd Hall. These really are just the tip of the iceberg!!

Have a little look;

http://www.grassfield-hall.co.uk/   http://www.sportsmans-arms.co.uk/  

https://www.warnerleisurehotels.co.uk/hotels/nidd-hall-hotel

However you are choosing to spend your winter, we hope you have chance to re-charge ready for next season.