Forge Valley, located near East Ayton, is ideal for countryside walking. The River Derwent, which meanders through the valley, is rich in wildlife. The oversized valley was cut long ago by glacial meltwater after the Ice Age.
Photographed here in early September 2012, Forge Valley’s boardwalk offers a perfect escape from the hustle and bustle of everyday life.
Parking is available at The Old Man’s car park adjacent to the River Derwent and the boardwalk is accessed over a bridge. Both the bridge and the boardwalk are suitable for wheelchairs. Go over the bridge and turn right; the route leads through the woods for about 1 km. The boardwalk ends as it leaves the woods and walkers can follow a trail, which leads towards Wrench Green and Hackness.
From The Old Man’s car park, over the bridge and turning left, the boardwalk finishes after about 1 km and the path then leads through a pasture leading on towards the village of Ayton.
Forge Valley has many walks and there is an abundance of wildlife. The paths are lined with wild garlic and bluebells and the area is a special place for birdwatchers.
