Seckar Wood Nature Reserve

About

Seckar Wood is an ancient woodland and lowland heathland located 5.5 miles south of Wakefield on the A61, Barnsley Road. Head south out of Wakefield and you’ll soon come across the ancient Seckar Wood Nature Reserve.

For over 300 years Seckar Wood was part of the Wentworth estate for over 300 years until it was purchased by local photographer Warner Gothard in 1923.

The walled pond near the centre was built as a swimming pool in the 1930s and the small summer house nearby was never completed.

Warner died in 1940 and left the wood to the people of Wakefield and Barnsley. After being held in trust for twenty years the wood was handed to Wakefield and Barnsley councils and has been managed by us since then

Visiting in spring? You’ll see a carpet of bluebells covering the woodland floor. Return in summer and marvel as the heathland is transformed into a sea of purple with the heather flowers. The diverse number of plants found at the reserve has resulted in Seckar Wood becoming a designated special site of scientific interest.

Have a peaceful stroll around the heathland and woodland stop often to get a glimpse of the wildlife that calls Seckar Wood their home, including stoats, weasels and roe deer.

Please note, cycling is only allowed on the main path. Free parking is available off Seckar Lane, open 6am to 9pm April – October and 6am to 7pm November to March.