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Celebrating Our Woodland Heritage Esholt Estate: An Archaeological Woodland Survey

Report No: PP21/260718 0

Celebrating Our Woodland Heritage Yorkshire Water Property: Esholt Estate An Archaeological Woodland Survey

Pennine Prospects

Celebrating Our Woodland Heritage Project

Report No: PP21/260718

This report was commissioned by Yorkshire Water



Celebrating Our Woodland Heritage

Esholt Estate:

An Archaeological Woodland Survey

Pennine Prospects


Report No: PP21/260718

Compiled by Christopher Atkinson BA (Hons), MA

Woodland Heritage Officer


August 2018

Pennine Prospects

Hebden Bridge Canal & Visitor Centre

Hebden Bridge

West Yorkshire

HX7 8AF



Contents

Summary 3

1.0 Introduction 4

2.0 Aims and Purpose of Assessment 5

3.0 Methodology 6

4.0 Location and Geology 9

5.0 Historical and Archaeological Background 11

6.0 Results 15

7.0 Discussion 19

8.0 Management Recommendations 20

9.0 Acknowledgments 23

10.0 Bibliography 24

11.0 List of illustrations and figures 26

Appendix 1: Survey Database

Appendix 2: Distribution Map

Appendix 3: Historic Mapping

Appendix 4: Digital Archive

Appendix 5: About the Author and Pennine Prospects



Summary

This report discusses the results of an archaeological woodland survey undertaken

on behalf of Yorkshire Water at their property of Esholt, within the Metropolitan

Borough of Bradford, West Yorkshire. Over an area of 59.47 hectares (146.95

acres), thirty-five previously unrecorded features of archaeological and historical

interest were identified and catalogued for the purpose of both updating the historical

record of the region; and to highlight any recommendations for the future

management of the property.

The majority of the features recorded on the 14th March 2018 relate to post-medieval

land enclosure and 20th century water management associated to the water

treatment works on the estate. In addition a number historic trees of possible late

medieval date, part of the estate park were recorded.

The majority of features are deemed of local significance. Features relating directly

to the planned landscape of Esholt have been determined as of regional significance

as they may represent the remanence of an arranged medieval park.



1.0 Introduction

This report has been compiled as part of the Celebrating Our Woodland Heritage

project. This three year project (2016-2019) is jointly funded by Yorkshire Water,

Heritage Lottery Fund, Green Bank Trust and Newground Together and aims to

identify record and interpret the historic environment of woodlands across the South

Pennines (National Character Area 36 – Natural England, 2014).

Led by Pennine Prospects, the project recognises as a result of a desk-based study

‘Hidden Heritage of the South Pennine Woodlands’ (Brown, 2013), that … “number

of sites recorded on the HER (Historic Environment Record) does not represent the

true nature of the surviving archaeological resource”. The report highlighted that this

underrepresentation (and general lack of knowledge) was the primary threat to

woodland archaeology.

The Celebrating Our Woodland Heritage project therefore seeks to enhance the

historic record for woodland across the South Pennines by means of a structured

programme of archaeological walkover surveys. Where appropriate these surveys

will provide the opportunity for members of the public, heritage and youth groups to

engage and contribute towards the investigations.

Archaeological features to be recorded within areas of woodland can represent the

whole of human history and use of the landscape. Features relating to the woodland

itself can include historic or veteran trees; woodland boundaries; charcoal burning

platforms; storage platforms; cottage sites; trackways and mills. Features may also

predate the current woodland and represent prehistoric-medieval field boundaries;

settlement sites or stones such as Bronze-Age cup and ring carvings.

The information collated during the field surveys will be deposited in the form of an

archaeological report (CIfA, 2017) and digital record to the landowner and the

regional Historic Environment Record. This data will not only guide future research

into the region, but also support and promote the preservation of the historic

environment as a part of any future management programmes within woodlands.



2.0 Aims and Purpose of Assessment

This investigation forms a baseline record of the archaeological and historic features

contained within the property. The general aims of the archaeological woodland

survey described in this report were to:

1. Develop a history of land use for the property from readily available historic

and archaeological documentation.

2. Identify previously unrecorded archaeological features and sites across the

property.

3. Revisit and assess the condition of previously recorded archaeological

features and sites across the property.

4. Propose management recommendations for the features and sites

investigated.

5. Produce a database (Appendix 1) for use by Yorkshire Water and West

Yorkshire Archaeology Advisory Service Historic Environment Record.



3.0 Methodology

3.1 Geology

Property information including any digital property mapping data was obtained from

Yorkshire Water. Data concerning the statutory and non-statutory conditions of land

and habitats both on and within the vicinity of the property was obtained from Natural

England and made available for commercial use under the Open Government

Licence. In addition the Natural England maintained MAGIC website was consulted.

The webpage provides authoritative geographic information about the natural

environment from across government. The information covers rural, urban, coastal

and marine environments across Great Britain.

Site geological and soil data was obtained online from the British Geological Survey

OpenGeoscience webpage. The data was downloaded and displayed using QGIS

2.18.14 'Las Palmas', an Open Source Geographic Information System (GIS). Site

maps were produced at a scale to best illustrate the full extent of the woodland under

investigation.

3.2 Historical and Archaeological Background

Previously collated historical and archaeological data concerning the site under

investigation (which includes a 200m buffer around the area) was obtained from

West Yorkshire Archaeology Advisory Service (WYAAS) as well as a search of the

Heritage Gateway. Listed building; parks and gardens and scheduled monument

data was obtained from the National Heritage List for England and downloaded as

shapefiles from Historic England.

3.3 Map Regression

Historic map regression of woodlands will be undertaken as a means of identifying a

broad account of landscape change and use. Where possible the available map

coverage (which included 1st – 3rd Edition County Series Survey, 1st – 4th Edition

National Grid and land utilisation mapping) were georeferenced using QGIS 2.18.14

'Las Palmas' and shapefiles produced to provide site specific data to map the historic

development of woodlands and the immediate surroundings. The Shapefiles are

included within the digital appendix.

https://www.nationalarchives.gov.uk/doc/open-government-licence/version/3/

https://www.nationalarchives.gov.uk/doc/open-government-licence/version/3/

http://www.natureonthemap.naturalengland.org.uk/home.htm

http://www.bgs.ac.uk/opengeoscience/home.html?src=topNav

http://www.heritagegateway.org.uk/gateway/

https://historicengland.org.uk/listing/the-list/data-downloads/



3.4 Light Detection and Ranging (LiDAR)

Light Detection and Ranging (LiDAR) data was consulted to support the historic map

regression and walkover survey elements. ‘Bare-earth’ Digital Terrain Model (DTM)

and Digital Surface Model (DSM) LiDAR tiles at a resolution of one metre were

downloaded from the Survey Open Data – Environment Agency webpage. The tiles

were converted from an American Standard Code for Information Interchange

(ASCII) format to a raster format using QGIS 2.18.2 'Las Palmas'. The tiles were

merged to create a single raster layer, a slope and hillshade algorithm was then

applied to create a model suitable for the analysis of the survey area and its

immediate surroundings.

Five DSM and Five DTM tiles were merged and analysed as part of the assessment.

The ASCII tiles consulted were:

Digital Terrain Model Tiles:

Se1739_DTM_1M; se1839_DTM_1M; se1840_DTM_1M; se1939_DTM_1M;

se1940_DTM_1M

Digital Surface Model Tiles:

Se1739_DSM_1M; se1839_DSM_1M; se1840_DSM_1M; se1939_DSM_1M;

se1940_DSM_1M

3.5 Level 1 Reconnaissance Survey (Field Survey)

The field survey was undertaken on 14th March 2018. The investigation was

systematic (where possible), with each woodland parcel walked in transects. Linear

features encountered whilst walking each transect (such as relict field boundaries

and trackways) were recorded in their entirety, before continuing along the transect.

Each archaeological feature encountered (such as quarries, platforms and relict

boundaries), was recorded in a field notebook and transcribed into an EXCEL

spreadsheet (see Appendix 1). The information recorded included:

• Grid Reference (using a handheld Garmin GPSmap 64s)

• Site Name



• Site Type (i.e. cottage site; quarry; charcoal burning platform; trackway)

• Description (i.e. dimensions; interpretation)

• Period (i.e. prehistoric; roman; medieval; post-medieval; modern; unknown)

• Condition/Threat (i.e. erosion caused by livestock)

• Recommendations (management suggestions)

• Reference (i.e. photographic reference; historic map reference)

• Importance (i.e. Local – Regional – National)

3.6 Field Conditions

The survey area covered 59.47 hectares (146.95 acres) and was undertaken during

wet and cold conditions. Due to the density of scrub woodland in the area of

Jerrison Wood as well as the severity of slope, combined with dense ground

vegetation in and around Field Wood and Hollins Wood access was limited.



4.0 Location and Geology

Figure 1: Location of the Esholt survey area in relation to the wider region.

The Yorkshire Water Property of Esholt is centred at NGR 398279 423991. The site

is centred on a bend in the Aire Valley, with the surveyed area including the south-

facing and north-facing slopes of the Aire Valley as well as the valley basin. The

property is located within the wards of Baildon, and Idle and Thackley (the border

between the two is represented by the River Aire and Guiseley Beck), part of the

Metropolitan Borough of Bradford, West Yorkshire. The village of Esholt is located

immediately to the west of the surveyed area.

The surveyed areas of woodland are listed on the National Forest Inventory as a

mixture of mixed mainly broadleaved or broadleaved and forms part of the White

Rose Community Forest (MAGIC, 2018). The woodlands of Spring Wood and

Jerrison wood in the north of the surveyed area are recognised as a mix of ancient

semi-natural woodland and ancient replanted woodland. Field Wood to the south is

recorded as ancient replanted woodland (MAGIC, 2018).



Soils on the property are described as slowly permeable seasonally wet acid loamy

and clayey soils. The soils within Field Wood are identified as freely draining slightly

acid loamy soils (BGS, 2018).

With the exception of the area of Field Wood the underlying geology consists

predominantly of Millstone Grit, formed 319-329 million years ago in the

carboniferous period when the local environment was dominated by swamps,

estuaries and deltas. Bands of Guiseley Grit (sandstone) formed 320-322 million

years ago has also been identified within the valley basin. The hill on which Field

Wood is situated has been described as Rough Rock (sandstone) formed 319-320

million years ago (BGS, 2018).

Figure 2: Location and extent of the of the Esholt survey area. The Historic Environment Record data

included in the map was provided by West Yorkshire Archaeology Advisory Service (WYAAS). The

Historic England GIS Data contained in this material was obtained on 16th August [2016]. The most

publicly available up to date Historic England GIS Data can be obtained from HistoricEngland.org.uk.



5.0 Historical and Archaeological Background

5.1 Historical Background

Figure 3: Excerpt of the County of York Surveyed in (1772) MDCCLXVII, VIII, IX, and MDCCLXX

Engraved by Thomas Jefferys. The site of Esholt is labelled as Efholt Hall (centre of the map). The

area of woodland depicted on the valley slopes (centre) to the south of the Leeds to Liverpool canal

are likely Field Wood and neighbouring Buck Wood. Copyright © The British Library Board

Esholt does not appear in the Domesday Survey of 1086. At that time it was located

on the border between the Hundreds of Morley and Skyrack (represented by the

River Aire). The nearest settlements were Baildon to the west and Eccleshill to the

south.

Towards the end of the 12th century either during the reign of Henry II or Richard I, a

Cistercian Nunnery dedicated to St. Mary and St. Leonard was established by

Geoffrey Harget or Simon Ward at Esholt. It is understood the whole of Esholt was

granted to the nuns by the Ward Family. It is during this period, the 12th-14th

https://www.british-history.ac.uk/vch/yorks/vol3/pp161-163



centuries that the two fish ponds (features of the later parkland) were likely

established. The priory remained active until the dissolution of the monasteries

during the reign of Henry VIII between 1536-1541.

Esholt Hall (Listed Building No: 1133190) was constructed on the site of the

Cistercian Priory by Sir Walter Calverley between 1706 and 1707. The site of the

Hall is recorded on the 1772 County of York map produced by Thomas Jefferys

(figure 3). The grounds, in particular the parkland extent (including the location of

individual trees), pattern of field enclosure, woodland and settlement is depicted

clearly of the 1847-48 1:10,560 OS County Series (figure 4).

Figure 4: Pattern of enclosure at Esholt, depicting the extent of the parkland and surrounding

woodlands. Excerpt from the 1847 to 1848 1:10,560 OS County Series: Yorkshire 202 (including

Aireborough; Horsforth; Pudsey) published in 1851. Copyright National Library of Scotland

Of particular note to this report is the depiction of Field Wood to the southwest and

Jerrison Wood and Spring Wood to the north. The woodland is depicted as it was

prior to the establishment of the railway network and water treatment (sewage)

https://historicengland.org.uk/listing/the-list/list-entry/1133190



works in the late 19th and early 20th century. Within the south of Spring Wood an

now lost fish pond, part of the parkland and presumably medieval estate is depicted,

along with the site of at least three cottages labelled ‘The Island’ located along the

west bank of Guiseley Beck.

Figure 5: Pattern of enclosure at Esholt reproduced from the 1893 1:2500 First County Series Survey.

By the time of the 1893 First County Series Survey (figure 5) publication the Shipley

and Guiseley Branch railway had been established to the north of Jerrison Wood.

Much of the pattern of enclosure and woodland extent appears relatively unchanged

at this date, although the settlement recognised as ‘The Island’ appears to

incorporate at least two weirs and a goit, indicating the presence of at least one mill

on the site.

It is during the early 20th century that the pattern of enclosure, woodland and

settlement alters significantly, due principally to the construction of the water

treatment (sewage) works in the 1920’s. Within Field Wood, an extensive quarry

supported by the tramway had been established at the summit of the hill by the time

of the 1922 Second Revision First County Series publication (figure 6). The tramway



served to carry extracted materials to the east where it was used to support the

construction of the water treatment (sewage) works which had begun at this date.

Additional works had also commenced to the north of St Paul’s Wood (Southwest of

Jerrison Wood) where the first settling tanks had been established. In preparation to

further development the pattern of field enclosure in this area had been altered,

although the designated parkland remained unaltered.

Figure 6: Pattern of enclosure at Esholt reproduced from the 1922 1:2500 Second Revision First

County Series Survey.

By the 1930’s the site of Esholt Water Treatment (Sewage) Works had been

developed in its entirety as represented on the 1934 Third Revision First County

Series Survey (figure 7). Field Wood had reduced in size considerable as the quarry

at the summit of the hill expanded to the west, east and south. Upon the north-

facing slopes the woodland extant had been further reduced due to the

establishment of a railway connecting a series of works with the main complex

beyond the canal to the north.



The rail network extended across the floodplain to the north and south of the River

Aire which intern served to dissect the parkland. In addition, the construction of

Sludge Beds immediately to the west of Esholt Hall and the expansion of the

Precipitation Tanks to the north, along Westfield Lane served to alter the landscape

considerably.

It is at this stage that the historic mapping registers the loss of the settlement known

as ‘The Island’ and with that the burial of the fish pond located to the west. Both

sites appear to have been buried beneath a substantial platform constructed at the

southern edge of Spring Wood. The material for which is likely to have derived from

the wider Sewage Work construction.

Figure 7: Pattern of enclosure at Esholt reproduced from the 1934 1:2500 Third Revision First County

Series Survey.

5.2 Light Detection and Ranging (LiDAR)

The available OpenSource LiDAR Digital Surface Model (DSM) and Digital Terrain

Model (DTM) data obtained from the Survey Open Data – Environment Agency

website provided near complete coverage of the surveyed area (with the exception



of the eastern end of Field Wood and the grounds to the south of Esholt Hall). This

data was not only useful for understanding and mapping the historic development of

the survey area, but it also supported the Level 1 Reconnaissance Survey; helping to

identify and support the interpretation of known and previously unrecorded features

of archaeological significance. Both the available DSM (figure 8) and DTM (figure 9)

tiles were analysed as ‘Slope Models’, this is an algorithm particularly suited to

investigating steep and undulating terrain where relatively level features such as

trackways and platforms and also quarries stand in contrast to the surrounding

natural slope. As a DSM, upstanding features such as boundary walls, banks and

structures are easily recognised. The DTM was useful for investigating those areas

currently obscured by dense conifer woodland (although these areas are located

outside of the surveyed area).

Figure 8: 1m resolution LiDAR DSM coverage represented as a slope model.



Figure9: 1m resolution LiDAR DTM coverage represented as a slope model.

Due to the open nature of much of the woodland, the DSM served as a clearer

resource for identifying features within woodland areas when compared with the

filtered DTM.

5.2.1 Field Wood

Within Field Wood the DSM (figure 10) illustrates the extent of the water treatment

works on the north-face of the hill which overlooks the Leeds and Liverpool Canal.

The development of the site in the 1920’s served to terrace the hillside in order to

support the railway, associated structures and belowground cistern. A steep

embankment to the southof these works is also recognisable.

At the summit of the slope the extent of the quarry, represented on the 1922 Second

RevisionCounty Series Survey is also well depicted in the form of a number of

sinuous terraces, the summit of which are marked by sandstone boulders.



Figure10: 1m resolution LiDAR DSM coverage of Field Wood.

5.2.2 Jerrison and Spring Wood

Patterns of enclosure and trackways as represented on the available historic

mapping within and around Jerrison Wood and Spring Wood continue survive to the

present day as indicated on the DSM (figure 11). Of particular note is a possible

relict boundary in the form of a terrace orientated northwest-southeast. The feature

is located within the area of historic enclosed fields (now dense scrub) to the south of

the woodland.

Within the south of Spring Wood features relating to the now relict water treatment

works in that area survive as a series of terraces and a cistern (Site No. 25). The

site of two precipitation tanks, appear as a sunken rectangular hollow orientated

northeast-southwest. The cistern (Site No. 25) is visible as a ditch, connecting

Guiseley Beck with the precipitation tanks site to the southwest.



Figure11: 1m resolution LiDAR DSM coverage of Jerrison Wood and Spring Wood.

5.3 Archaeological Background

Prior to this investigation 19 features were recorded as immediately outside of the

survey area on the West Yorkshire Archaeology Advisory Service Historic

Environment Record, Pastscapes and Historic England’s Listed Buildings Register.

No Scheduled Monuments, Registered Parks and Gardens or Battlefield Sites exist

within (including a 100m buffer) the survey area.

Table 1: List detailing the known archaeological records on and immediately around the property.

SAM/LB PastScape Archaeology

Data Service

WYAAS

HER

Name Type

1133190 SE 13 NE 9 2277 Esholt Hall with

terrace and

adjoining

conservatory

Grade II*

SE 13 NE 6 1892 Coin of Maxillian

(A.D. 285-296)

Findspot

9616 Home Farm Grade II



9617 Home Farm Grade II

SE 14 SE 92 2175 Stone Top Quarry

SE 14 SE 91 6676 Esholt Sewage

Treatment Works

92 Esholt Old Hall

3366 Cinder Place

Name

SE 13 NE 7 Beehive Quern Findspot

111868 High View House Grade II

1291349 High View Grade II

1314127 High View Grade II

1393125 Memorial Institute Grade II

1115568 Church of St. Paul Grade II

1115537 2-8 Church Lane Grade II

1314421 Boggart House to

north west of

Esholt Hall

Grade II

1269144 Leeds & Liverpool

Canal, Field 3

Rise Lock 16 18

at SE180 398

Grade II

1133155 Garden Cottage

at Esholt Hall

Grade II

1133192 Gate Piers in park

approximately 266

yards southeast of

south front of

Esholt Hall

Grade II



6.0 Results

Figure 12: Distribution of features of archaeological and historical significance recorded during the survey.



Thirty-five previously unrecorded features of archaeological and historical

significance were recorded within the Yorkshire Water property of Esholt (figure 12).

A detailed dataset, including feature specific management recommendations for

each of the recorded features can be found in Appendix 1.

6.1 Prehistoric

No Prehistoric features or find spots were identified during the survey.

6.2 Romano-British

No Romano-British features or find spots were identified during the survey.

6.3 Medieval

6.3.1 Parkland Features

Within the vicinity of Esholt Hall upon the gentle south-facing slope of the valley

basin features relating to the parkland were recorded. The most substantial of these

is an oval fishpond (Site No. 31). The feature is recorded on the 1893 First County

Series Survey and represents the last of two fish ponds at the site. The other was

located within Spring Wood, but was subsequently landscaped with the development

of the water treatment works in the 20th Century. The surviving fish pond measures

up to 30.0m (north-south) by 20.0m (east-west). Although the feature has been

maintained and reworked during the post-medieval period, there is a strong

possibility that pond is of medieval origins.

A number of mature/veteran trees were also recorded within the surveyed area

which may be of late medieval orgins when the parkland is likely to have developed

as an arranged landscape. These are represented by Site No. 26, 27 & 34. In

addition, areas of ancient semi-natural woodland such as St Paul’s Wood and the

areas of woodland surrounding the fishpond and drives through the estate may also

be of medieval date in origins.

6.3.2 Land Divisions

Within Jerrison Wood a number of boundaries of possible medieval date were

identified between the northern limit of the survey area and the Shipley and Guiseley



Branch railway cutting. The sinuous boundaries (Site No. 13 & 15) survive as

terraces/lynchets which serve to enclose a number of irregular fields as depicted on

the 1893 First County Series Survey to the north of Hollins Hill Bottom and west of

Jerrison Wood.

Plate 1: Terrace boundary (Site No. 13) and accompanying trackway (Site No. 12) extending west

from Jerrison Wood. Note the remains of a drystone wall that once faced this part of the boundary.

Prior to the 20th century this area stood in open fields (Scales are 1 metre). Copyright Pennine

Prospects

The boundaries stand up to 1.50m tall, and in the case of Site No. 13 is

accompanied by a broad ditch at its base at its western end as it extends north.

Along its east-west axis is a substantial track (Site No. 12; plate 1). It is possible the

broad ditch represents an earlier continuation of this track. The boundaries are also

marked by a number of veteran oaks. As terraces the boundaries are unique within

the surveyed area. All other land divisions consist of upstanding post-medieval

drystone walls.

6.4 Post-medieval


The majority of land divisions recorded during the survey are recognised as post-

medieval in construction, although there remains the potential that a number of the



boundaries recorded replace earlier potentially medieval features (particularly in light

of the medieval estate of Esholt). All of the boundaries recorded appear on the 1893

First County Series Survey and survive to varying degrees.

Plate 2: Regular mortared wall (Site No. 19) which serves to separate Jerrison Wood (foreground)

from Spring Wood (Scales are 1 metre). Copyright Pennine Prospects

A network of boundaries (Site No. 16, 17, 18 & 19) in the vicinity of Jerrison Wood

and Spring Wood serve to demarcate the woodland from what were until recently

fields situated between the woods and the lane to the south. These fields are now

either planted as woodland or overgrown with scrub vegetation. The boundaries

vary in form, with the woodland boundary separating Jerrison Wood and Spring

Wood (Site No. 19; plate 2) consisting of a regular, mortared wall, where as those

representing field boundaries are more irregular in construction with coping stones

placed in a crenelated pattern. The varying typology of boundary here may

represent different periods of construction.

Within Field Wood to the south the pattern of field enclosure is more traditional,

consisting of irregular drystone walls (In the case of relict boundary Site No. 8

orthostats are included in its construction (plate 3)). They vary in condition, with

those serving to mark the edges of the woodland (Site No. 6 & 11) remaining intact;

whereas those within the woodland (Site No. 1 & 8) standing as relicts having been



robbed of materials or truncated as a result of later activities relating to mineral

extraction and the establishment of the water treatment works.

Plate 3: Relict boundary (Site No. 8) surviing as a low mixed orthostat and irregular drystone wall.

The wall has been truncated as a result of quarrying activity and the construction of the water

treatment works in the early 20th century (Scale is 1 metre). Copyright Pennine Prospects

6.4.2 Routes of Communication

Many of the tracks across Esholt Estate continue to provide public access. Within

the surveyed areas these are represented by the principle lane extending through

Jerrison Wood and Spring Wood (Site No. 12) before merging with Spring Road (Site

No. 28) to the east. Within Field Wood an eroded cobbled track was recorded

extending up slope from the canal (Site No. 9).

6.4.3 Mineral Extraction

The main area of mineral extraction identified during the survey is located within

Field Wood, at the summit of the north-facing slope (Site No. 2). Extraction of the

rough rock sandstone bedrock at the site had commenced by the time of the

publication of the 1922 1:2500 Second Revision First County Series Survey. The

quarry included a tramway which extended east following the contour before coming

to a halt above and to the west of the newly constructed settling tanks associated

with the water treatment (sewage) works. The tramway was not identified during the



survey. The quarry itself (as is evident from the available LiDAR (figure 10))

extended west post-1922, serving to give the effect of a terrace at the summit of the

hill. This expansion in mineral extraction is no doubt associated with the

development of the water treatment works and the establishment of a railway

network part-way down the hill to the north.

6.5 Modern

6.5.1 Water Treatment (Sewage) Works

Within Field Wood and Spring Wood the remains of water and waste water

management features including structures and transport networks survive. The most

complex remains stand abandoned in Field Wood (Site No. 3, 4, 5, 7 & 10).

Plate 4: (Site No. 4) Concrete structure (railway siding) constructed into the north-facing slope of Field

Wood and above the cistern (Site No. 7). The terrace to the left of the structure represents the site of

the standard gauge railway (three sets of tracks (Scale is 2 metre). Copyright Pennine Prospects

The treatment works were established across Esholt estate in the 1920’s. By the

time of the publication of the 1934 1:2500 Third Revision First County Series the

north-facing slope in Field Wood had been extensively terraced in order to construct

a below-ground cistern (Site No. 7) and above-ground railway network. The rail

network served to connect the ‘screen house’ and ‘detritus pits’ located to the east of



the woodland with a railway bridge (Site No. 5) and wider rail networks across the

works beyond. The remains of two large concrete structures (Site No. 3 & 4)

associated with the treatment works are located on the southern edge of a wide

terrace that once supported the railway. Site No. 4 (plate 4) was constructed above

the below-ground cistern. At the eastern end of the woodland in the vicinity of Site

No. 3 a number of subsidiary structures relating to the railway survive in the form of a

barrier entrance and siding.

Plate 5: Abandoned girder railway bridge (Site No. 5) which carried the standard gauge railway across

the Leeds and Liverpool Canal to the rest of the complex to the north (Scale is 2 metre). Copyright

Pennine Prospects

Within the south of Spring Wood additional (abandoned) features relating to the

water treatment works were identified. It is clear that much of the area has been

landscaped both prior to development in the 1920’s, but also since the closure of two

settling tanks constructed within the woodland as evidenced by an aerial photograph

taken in 1947 https://britainfromabove.org.uk/en/image/EAW005612 (two settling

tanks in question are middle foreground). Although the settling tanks are no longer

visible within the woodland (buried), a single concrete structure located immediately

to the southwest (Site No. 23) once connected to the site remains.


https://britainfromabove.org.uk/en/image/EAW005612



Plate 6: 20th century boundary and gateway (Site No. 35) constructed on the western edge of the

avenue towards Esholt Hall (Scales are 1 metre). Copyright Pennine Prospects

The majority of boundaries lining the ‘The Avenue’ are of modern construction

consisting of mortared regular dressed stone. This is despite the fact the

landscaped avenue to Esholt Hall is likely of late medieval construction. One

particular stretch of wall lies to the south of Esholt Hall on the western edge of the

avenue. The boundary and gateway (Site No. 35) are recorded on the 1934 1:2500

Third Revision First County Series Survey. The gateway provided access to an

overflow into the River Aire whereas the boundary served to mark the eastern extent

of the pre-sewage works parkland.



7.0 Discussion

Despite the extensive impact of the 20th century sewage works on what was the

estate of Esholt Hall, features relating to the medieval and post-medieval planned

landscape survives in the form of relict and current boundaries, as well as veteran

trees.

This is most evident in the north of the survey area where despite the construction of

settling tanks in the 1920’s, adjacent veteran oak trees (part of the estate parkland)

recorded on early 19th century mapping survive. Unlike the likely medieval fish pool

fed by Guiseley Beck in Spring Wood, the fish pool closest to Esholt Hall also

survives, although in an altered state.

Patterns of enclosure within Jerrison Wood and Spring Wood also survive to a high

degree. Those within Jerrison Wood are of particular interest as they take on a

characteristically medieval form, appearing as south and west-facing terraces lined

with veteran oaks. Historic mapping suggests these may mark the original extent of

Jerrison Wood, although their form relating to earlier field enclosure cannot be

discounted.

All of the features recorded during the survey serve to enhance the understanding of

the historic development of Esholt. Archaeological features characteristic of the

medieval landscape and estate have been regarded as of Regional Significance.



8.0 Management Recommendations

As a part of this survey, identified features were assessed in regards to condition;

this information has been used to formulate management recommendations. The

recommendations cover only those features identified within woodland areas. The

operational management of the water treatment works and its subsidiary features

such as access routes were beyond the scope of this investigation.

8.1 General Guidelines

Forestry operations can be detrimental to both upstanding archaeological remains

and below-ground archaeological deposits. Guidelines which meet the requirements

of the United Kingdom Forestry Standard (UKFS) have been published by the

Forestry Commission (Forestry Commission; 2011). The reader is advised to refer

to this document for further information.

The guidelines recognise:

1. Forests should be designed and managed to take account of the historical

character and cultural values of the landscape.

2. Windblown trees located upon features of archaeological interest can cause

considerable damage due to the uplift of root plates. Any upstanding walls or

structures may also be crushed as a result of windblown trees. General root

action can also be disruptive to both below and above ground archaeological

features.

3. Although low-level woodland browsing can control woody vegetation within

woodland pastures and clearings; overgrazing by introduced livestock can

cause significant erosion to upstanding earthworks and structures. Additional

measures such as fencing may be required to protect the ground around

individual sites of historic importance/interest.

4. Forest operations and civil engineering activities involve heavy machinery and

earth-moving equipment. These can unintentionally destroy or damage

archaeological remains and veteran trees directly, or in-directly due to soil

vibration, compaction and erosion.

5. Ground disturbance and with that potential damage or destruction to

archaeological features and below ground deposits can also be caused as a



result of habitat restoration projects. This can involve the pulling out of tree

stumps and the inverting of soil layers to reduce surface nutrient content.

Alternatively restocking can lead to new or additional damage to

archaeological features and below-ground deposits.

6. There is considerable public interest public interest in cultural heritage and the

historic environment and interpretation of theses aspects of woodlands can

provide a focus for visitors (using the public rights of way through the

woodland). This could be achieved as part of a wider access or recreation

strategy. Historic environment features can be linked by heritage trails and

explained through the use of interpretative panels, leaflets or maps. However

these would need to be managed to avoid negative impacts on the historic

environment, such as increased erosion.

At the time of this reports completion ancient woodland including ancient semi-

natural woodland and plantations on ancient woodland had been granted specific

legislation as part of the National Planning Policy Framework (Chapter 11.

Conserving and enhancing the natural environment) concerning their protection.

The reader is advised to refer to this document prior to any management or

development activities.

The guidance states:

1. Direct impacts of development on ancient woodland or veteran trees include:

damaging or destroying all or part of them (including their soils,

ground flora, or fungi)

damaging roots and understorey (all the vegetation under the taller

trees)

damaging or compacting soil around the tree roots

polluting the ground around them

changing the water table or drainage of woodland or individual trees

damaging archaeological features or heritage assets

2. Nearby development can also have an indirect impact on ancient woodland or

veteran trees and the species they support. These can include:

https://www.gov.uk/guidance/national-planning-policy-framework/11-conserving-and-enhancing-the-natural-environment#paragraph_118

https://www.gov.uk/guidance/national-planning-policy-framework/11-conserving-and-enhancing-the-natural-environment#paragraph_118



breaking up or destroying connections between woodlands and veteran trees

Breaking up or destroying connection between woodlands and

veteran trees

reducing the amount of semi-natural habitats next to ancient

woodland

increasing the amount of pollution, including dust

increasing disturbance to wildlife from additional traffic and

visitors

increasing light pollution

increasing damaging activities like fly-tipping and the impact of

domestic pets

changing the landscape character of the area

Legislation states: ‘planning permission should be refused for development resulting

in the loss or deterioration of irreplaceable habitats, including ancient woodland and

the loss of aged or veteran trees found outside ancient woodland, unless the need

for, and benefits of, the development in that location clearly outweigh the loss …’

(Chapter 11, Paragraph 118, NPPF, 2018).

8.2 Mitigation

1. At the earliest stage, in advance of any management operations within areas

of woodland, the organisation commissioning the works should consult with

the regional historic environment authority, in this instance West Yorkshire

Archaeology Advisory Service (WYAAS): http://www.wyjs.org.uk/archaeology-

advisory-service/; and Natural England. Due to the proximity of the

woodlands to buildings of historical significance (Listed Buildings), and due to

aspects of the woodland and recorded features as part of this survey, it is

advised that the organisation commissioning the works contact Historic

England.

2. Where an operation next to a historical feature is unavoidable, clear routes

and exclusion areas should be marked out to provide protection to the

monuments. Contractors could be provided with a ‘cab-card’, detailing in

http://www.wyjs.org.uk/archaeology-advisory-service/

http://www.wyjs.org.uk/archaeology-advisory-service/



bullet-point and map format information concerning the heritage, exclusion

zones and routes to and from site.

3. Regular visits to heritage sites to monitor the condition will identify any new

threats or damage to the feature.

4. Trees and shrubs either on or within the immediate vicinity of archaeological

sites/features should be managed to limit the extent and establishment of

woody vegetation. It should be considered that large trees vulnerable to

windthrow be removed or crowned to reduce the weight of the tree canopy.

However, veteran trees, such as those representative of Esholt Park’s

designed landscape should where possible be maintained.

8.3 Specific Guidelines

Specific management recommendations for each feature recorded as part of the

survey can be found in Appendix 1.

8.3.1 Boundaries

The majority of boundary walls recorded during the survey continue to serve as

active boundaries (Site No. 1, 6, 11, 16, 17, 18 & 19) marking areas of woodland

from adjacent fields as well as serving to mark divisions between different woodland

parcels (such as Jerrison Wood and Spring Wood). The boundaries are in a fair to

good condition. Each boundary should be monitored to ensure ground vegetation

and tree saplings do not establish themselves on the stonework and cause

damage/erosion. Mature trees within close proximity of all of the boundaries

recorded during the survey should also be monitored and where appropriate,

coppiced/pollarded, crowned, thinned or removed to prevent windthrow damage to

the features.

As active features, the landowner should seek to restore and/or maintain each of the

recorded boundaries.

Where boundaries are relict (no longer in use), the landowner should seek to

preserve the feature, acting to prevent further erosion by means of reducing ground

vegetation and preventing the establishment of tree saplings on the feature.

8.3.2 Structures



Multiple structures relating to water treatment (sewage) works were identified within

areas of woodland during the survey. These include standing buildings (Site No. 3,

4, 10, 23), cisterns (Site No. 7, 25) and a bridge (Site No. 5.).

Though disused and representative of 20th century waste water management

activity, they represent part of the landscapes heritage. In order to prevent further

erosion to the features scrub vegetation and sapling trees should be prevented from

establishing on the masonry. Mature trees within close proximity of all of the

features recorded during the survey should also be monitored and where

appropriate, coppiced/pollarded, crowned, thinned or removed to prevent root or

windthrow damage to the features.

8.3.3 Parkland Features

Features such as the pond (Site No. 31) and individual veteran trees (Site No. 26 &

27) which have been identified as representing part of the arrange medieval and

post-medieval parkland landscape of Esholt should be appropriately managed and

maintained. The felling and removal of veteran trees should be avoided, instead

veteran trees should be thinned or crowned in order to reduce weight and the risk of

windthrow. The pond should be maintained and when required the sluice and

overflows kept clear of vegetation and debris to prevent overfilling and stagnation.

The pond has the potential to promote rich biodiversity.



9.0 Acknowledgments

Pennine Prospects would like to thank Yorkshire Water, in particular Geoff Lomas,

Catchment and Recreation Manager for their support and enthusiasm of the

Celebrating Our Woodland Heritage Project.

We would also like to thank the staff of West Yorkshire Archaeological Advisory

Service Historic Environment Record for their provision of data relating to the study

area and the wider region of West Yorkshire.



10.0 Bibliography

Online Resources

MAGIC geographic information Accessed: 20/07/2018

URL: http://www.magic.gov.uk/MagicMap.aspx

United Kingdom Soil Observatory Soils map viewer Accessed: 20/07/2018

URL: http://mapapps2.bgs.ac.uk/ukso/home.html

Cranfield University 2016. The Soils Guide. Available: www.landis.org.uk. Cranfield

University, UK Accessed 20/07/2018

URL: http://www.landis.org.uk/services/soilsguide/soilscapes.cfm?ssid=19

British Geological Survey, Geology of Britain Viewer Accessed: 20/07/2018

URL: http://mapapps.bgs.ac.uk/geologyofbritain/home.html

British History Online: Houses of Cistersians nuns: Priory of Esholt; A History of the

County of York: Volume 3; pp.161-163 Accessed 29/08/2018

URL: https://www.british-history.ac.uk/vch/yorks/vol3/pp161-163

Published Resources

Ainsworth, S; Bowden, M; McOmish, D & Pearson, T, (2007). Understanding the

Archaeology of Landscapes: A guide to good recording practice. Swindon, English

Heritage

http://www.magic.gov.uk/MagicMap.aspx

http://mapapps2.bgs.ac.uk/ukso/home.html

http://www.landis.org.uk/services/soilsguide/soilscapes.cfm?ssid=19

http://mapapps.bgs.ac.uk/geologyofbritain/home.html

https://www.british-history.ac.uk/vch/yorks/vol3/pp161-163



Brown, L, (2013). ‘Hidden Heritage of the South Pennine Woodlands’. Pennine

Prospects, Unpublished Report

CIfA, (2017). ‘Standard and Guidance for Archaeological Field Evaluation’.

Chartered Institute for Archaeologists, University of Reading

Forestry Commission, (2011). ‘Forests and historic environment: UK Forestry

Standard Guidelines’. Forestry Commission, Edinburgh

King William I, (1086). Ed John Morris, (1986). Domesday Book, Yorkshire (Part

Two). Phillimore, Chichester

Natural England, (2014). ‘National Character Area Profile: 36 Southern Pennines’.

Natural England



11.0 List of illustrations

Tables

Table 1: List detailing the known archaeological records on and immediately around the property.

Figures

Figure 1: Location of the Esholt survey area in relation to the wider region.

Figure 2: Location and extent of the of the Esholt survey area. The Historic Environment Record data

included in the map was provided by West Yorkshire Archaeology Advisory Service (WYAAS). The

Historic England GIS Data contained in this material was obtained on 16th August [2016]. The most

publicly available up to date Historic England GIS Data can be obtained from HistoricEngland.org.uk.

Figure 3: Excerpt of the County of York Surveyed in (1772) MDCCLXVII, VIII, IX, and MDCCLXX

Engraved by Thomas Jefferys. The site of Esholt is labelled as Efholt Hall (centre of the map). The

area of woodland depicted on the valley slopes (centre) to the south of the Leeds to Liverpool canal

are likely Field Wood and neighbouring Buck Wood. Copyright © The British Library Board

Figure 4: Pattern of enclosure at Esholt, depicting the extent of the parkland and surrounding

woodlands. Excerpt from the 1847 to 1848 1:10,560 OS County Series: Yorkshire 202 (including

Aireborough; Horsforth; Pudsey) published in 1851. Copyright National Library of Scotland

Figure 5: Pattern of enclosure at Esholt reproduced from the 1893 1:2500 First County Series Survey.

Figure 6: Pattern of enclosure at Esholt reproduced from the 1922 1:2500 Second Revision First

County Series Survey.

Figure 7: Pattern of enclosure at Esholt reproduced from the 1934 1:2500 Third Revision First County

Series Survey.

Figure 8: 1m resolution LiDAR DSM coverage represented as a slope model.

Figure9: 1m resolution LiDAR DTM coverage represented as a slope model.

Figure10: 1m resolution LiDAR DSM coverage of Field Wood.

Figure11: 1m resolution LiDAR DSM coverage of Jerrison Wood and Spring Wood.

Figure 12: Distribution of features of archaeological and historical significance recorded during the

survey.

Plates

Plate 1: Terrace boundary (Site No. 13) and accompanying trackway (Site No. 12) extending west

from Jerrison Wood. Note the remains of a drystone wall that once faced this part of the boundary.



Prior to the 20th century this area stood in open fields (Scales are 1 metre). Copyright Pennine

Prospects

Plate 2: Regular mortared wall (Site No. 19) which serves to separate Jerrison Wood (foreground)

from Spring Wood (Scales are 1 metre). Copyright Pennine Prospects

Plate 3: Relict boundary (Site No. 8) surviing as a low mixed orthostat and irregular drystone wall.

The wall has been truncated as a result of quarrying activity and the construction of the water

treatment works in the early 20th century (Scale is 1 metre). Copyright Pennine Prospects

Plate 4: (Site No. 4) Concrete structure (railway siding) constructed into the north-facing slope of Field

Wood and above the cistern (Site No. 7). The terrace to the left of the structure represents the site of

the standard gauge railway (three sets of tracks (Scale is 2 metre). Copyright Pennine Prospects

Plate 5: Abandoned girder railway bridge (Site No. 5) which carried the standard gauge railway across

the Leeds and Liverpool Canal to the rest of the complex to the north (Scale is 2 metre). Copyright

Pennine Prospects

Plate 6: 20th century boundary and gateway (Site No. 35) constructed on the western edge of the

avenue towards Esholt Hall (Scales are 1 metre). Copyright Pennine Prospects



Appendix 1: Survey Database

Site No.

Easting

Northing

Site Name

Site Type

Sub-category

Description Period Condition/Threat

Recommendation Reference

Importance

1 418005 439551 Boundary

Irregular Drystone Wall

An irregular relict drystone wall boundary which served to enclose a field to the south. The wall supports angular coping stones. The boundary stands up to 1.0m tall and 0.50m wide. The boundary peters-out to the east due to quarry extraction works.

Post-Medieval

The feature is in a poor condition. Vegetation consists of young silver birch, mature sycamore, holly and brambles. The boundary is susceptible to erosion and damaged caused by root action and windthrow.

The feature should continue to be monitored and maintained as a relict boundary. Scrub and sapling tree vegetation should be monitored and where necessary reduced upon the feature to prevent erosion. Young and mature trees upon or within the immediate vicinity should be coppiced/pollarded or felled in order to prevent windthrow damage.

Map Ref: 1893 1:2500 First County Series Survey; Photograph Ref: P1050786

Local



2 418082 439588 Quarry

Quarry Extensive but shallow area of quarrying at the summit of the north-facing slope within Field Wood. The consists of multiple small to large pits. The northern most quarry exposes a bedrock face. The quarried area measures c.40.0m east-west by 20.0m north-south and up to 3.0m deep. The 1922 1:2500 Second Revision First County Series Survey indicates the quarry supported a tramline which extended to the east traversing the natural slope of the hill through Hollins Wood.

Post-Medieval

The feature is in a fair condition. Vegetation consists of ash, silver birch, brambles and ferns.

The quarry should be monitored.

Map Ref: 1922 1:2500 Second Revision First County Series Survey; Photograph Ref: P1050787

Local



3 418319 439508 Structure

Reinforced concrete complex constructed as part of the water treatment (sewage) works. The complex is constructed into the north-facing slope and measures c.20.0m tall, 10.0m wide and 15.0m deep. At the foot of the structure, upon its northern edge is a platform measuring 10.0m x 10.0m square and up to 9.0m tall. At the foot of the platform is the site of a below ground cistern and above ground lane (site of small gauge railway) with support structures which traverse the hill slope to the west.

Modern

The feature is in a fair condition. Vegetation consists of mature beech, ivy, moss and elder. Structure is susceptible to root and windthrow damage.

The structure should be monitored. Scrub vegetation and sapling tree growth should be discouraged and cleared from the structure.

Map Ref: 1934 1:2500 Third Revision First County Series Survey; Photograph Ref: P1050788, P1050789, P1050790, P1050791

Local



4 418195 439643 Structure

Disused reinforced concrete structure located above the below ground cistern. The structure served as part of the water treatment (sewage) works. Immediately south of the one storey structure is the access route. The track (which supported a small gauge mineral railway by 1934) measures up to 10.0m wide. The structure is c.8.0m east-west, 7.0m north-south and up to 6.0m tall.

Modern

The feature is in a fair condition. Vegetation consists of mature beech, ivy, moss and elder. Structure is susceptible to root and windthrow damage.


Map Ref: 1934 1:2500 Third Revision First County Series Survey; Photograph Ref: P1050792

Local

5 417896 439784 Structure

Bridge Iron girder bridge spanning the Leeds and Liverpool Canal was constructed by 1934 to support a small-gauge railway associated with the water treatment (sewage) works. The railway is labelled as a mineral railway on the available historic mapping resources.

Modern

The feature is in a fair condition. Vegetation consists of mature and sapling beech. The bridge is susceptible to root and windthrow damage.

The bridge should be monitored and maintained to prevent collapse into the reservoir. Scrub vegetation and sapling tree growth should be discouraged and cleared from the structure.

Map Ref: 1934 1:2500 Third Revision First County Series Survey; Map Ref: Photograph Ref: P1050794

Local



6 417911 439742 Boundary


Irregular drystone wall serving to mark the northern limit of Buck Wood. The boundary is sinuous as it extends west from the bridge serving to separate the woodland from a small field under pasture. The boundary stands up to 0.70m tall and 0.50m wide. The wall is capped by rounded coping stones set on edge.

Post-Medieval

The boundary is in a fair to poor condition. Vegetation consists of mature sycamore and ash, sapling ash, brambles and ivy. The feature is susceptible to root and windthrow damage.

The feature should continue to be monitored and maintained as a boundary. Scrub and sapling tree vegetation should be monitored and where necessary reduced upon the feature to prevent erosion. Young and mature trees upon or within the immediate vicinity should be coppiced/pollarded or felled in order to prevent windthrow damage.


Local

7 417897 439703 Structure

Cistern Below ground water cistern cut into north-facing slope. The site of the cistern is marked by regularly spaced brick-built vents and access routes as well as reinforced concrete structures (part of the water treatment (sewage) works. Flowing water can be heard indicating its continued use.

Modern

The feature appears to be in a good condition.

The cistern should continue to be monitored and maintained.

Photograph Ref: P1050796

Local



8 417892 439666 Boundary

Orthostat and Irregular Drystone Wall

Remnants of a relict Orthostat and irregular drystone wall orientated north-south ascending the north-facing slope. The feature has been truncated at a number of locations due to later mineral extraction activity and the construction of the water management features. The boundary stands up to 0.70m tall, 0.50m wide.

Post-Medieval

The boundary is in a poor condition. Vegetation consists of mature ash and beech, oak, silver birch, holly moss, fern and beech sapling. The feature is susceptible to root and windthrow damage.

The feature should continue to be monitored and maintained as a relict boundary. Scrub and sapling tree vegetation should be monitored and where necessary reduced upon the feature to prevent erosion. Young and mature trees upon or within the immediate vicinity should be coppiced/pollarded or felled in order to prevent windthrow damage.

Map Ref: 1893 1:2500 First County Series Survey; Photograph Ref: P1050797, P1050798

Local

9 417932 439601 Trackway

Terraced Track

Terraced track oriented northwest-southeast traversing the north-facing slope. The track measures up to 2.0m wide preserving evidence it was once surfaced with cobbles and angular flat gritstone. The track continues to serve and provide public access.

Post-Medieval

The feature is in a fair condition.

The feature should be monitored and maintained as a public footpath.


Local



10 417978 439607 Structure

Mixed brick and concrete structure located at the foot of a quarry cut into the north-facing slope. The structure is in a state of collapse and is likely associated with the water management works in the vicinity.

Modern

The feature is in a poor condition. Vegetation consists of silver birch, beech, brambles and ferns. The structure is susceptible to erosion and damaged caused by root action and windthrow.



Local

11 417934 439579 Boundary


Irregular drystone wall marking the southern edge of Buck Wood at the summit of a north-facing slope. The boundary measures up to 1.0m tall, 0.60m wide and supports angular coping stones.

Post-Medieval

The feature is in a good condition. Vegetation consists of mature sycamore, bracken and bluebells.

The feature should continue to be monitored and maintained as a boundary. Scrub and sapling tree vegetation should be monitored and where necessary reduced upon the feature to prevent erosion. Young and mature trees upon or within the immediate vicinity should be coppiced/pollarded or felled in order to prevent windthrow damage.


Local



12 418512 440410 Trackway

Terraced Track

South-facing terraced track measuring up to 2.0m wide orientated east-west through Jerrison Wood. The northern edge of the track is partially marked by a south-facing terrace or lynchet which was once faced with an irregular drystone wall. The terrace stands up to 1.50m tall and serves to demarcate an enclosed area to the north.

Post-Medieval

The feature is in a fair condition. The surface of the trackway is susceptible to erosion caused by pedestrian, cyclist and quadbike erosion, particularly during periods of wet weather.

The trackway should be monitored and maintained.


Local



13 418347 440443 Boundary

Terrace

Substantial relict terrace boundary enclosing an area of enclosed land within Jerrison Wood. The boundary appears to pre-date the current beech. It consists of a terrace 1.50m. Adjacent to the south is a terraced track. As the east-west boundary redirects north at its western end, located at the foot of the terrace is a broad ditch measuring 2.0m wide, 0.50m deep. West o the ditch is a low broad bank measuring 1.50m wide, 0.30m tall. Along the bank are two veteran oaks. The boundary is truncated to the north by a railway cutting. The scale of the boundary may indicate a medieval origins relating to a pre-woodland pattern of enclosure.

Medieval

The feature is in a fair condition. Vegetation consists of oak, beech and sycamore. The feature is susceptible to root and windthrow damage.

The relict boundary should be maintained. Scrub vegetation and sapling tree growth should be discouraged and cleared to prevent root and windthrow damage. The veteran trees located on the boundary should be maintained, as they pre-date the current woodland. Management in the form of pollarding, thinning or crowning maybe required to reduce the risk of windthrow.

Photograph Ref: P1050802, P1050804

Local



14 418439 440412 Veteran Tree

Sycamore

Single veteran sycamore located on the southern edge of an east-west aligned track through Jerrison Wood. The tree has a circumference of c.3.0m and stands at least 20.0m tall.

Post-Medieval

The feature is in a good condition. Tree is susceptible to windthrow damage.

The tree should be monitored and where necessary managed to prevent loss.


Local

15 418442 440445 Boundary

Terrace

West-facing relict boundary in the form of a terrace measuring 1.0m tall. The boundary may have supported a drystone wall. To the south the feature ends at a right-angle on the summit of a south-facing boundary. To the north the boundary is truncated by a railway cutting. The scale of the boundary may indicate a medieval origins relating to a pre-woodland pattern of enclosure.

Medieval

The feature is in a fair condition. Vegetation consists of ash, beech and sycamore, and bluebells The feature is susceptible to root and windthrow damage.

The relict boundary should be maintained. Scrub vegetation and sapling tree growth should be discouraged and cleared to prevent root and windthrow damage. The veteran trees located on the boundary should be maintained, as they pre-date the current woodland. Management in the form of pollarding, thinning or crowning maybe required to reduce the risk of windthrow.


Local



16 418570 440391 Boundary

Regular Drystone Wall

North-south orientated relict regular drystone wall demarcating the mature area of woodland to the west from a newly planted area (previous field) to the east. The boundary stands up to 1.0m tall, 0.50m wide.

Post-Medieval

The boundary is in a fair to poor condition. Vegetation consists of mature oak, coppice sycamore and dense brambles. The boundary is in a state of decline and in part truncated to support cyclist access, including the construction of a bike ramp over the wall foundations.

The relict boundary should be maintained. Scrub vegetation and sapling tree growth should be discouraged and cleared to prevent root and windthrow damage. New woodland within the immediate vicinity of the wall should continue to be managed as coppice. Mature trees located on or next to the boundary should be managed in the form of pollarding, thinning or crowning to reduce the risk of root and windthrow damage.


Local



17 418710 440330 Boundary


Irregular drystone wall serving to demarcate the southern edge of Jerrison Wood from a series of fields (containing newly planted woodland). The boundary stand 1.0m tall and 0.50m wide. The wall is capped by angular copping stone set on edge in a crenelated pattern.

Post-Medieval

The boundary is in a fair condition. Vegetation consists of dense brambles, coppiced sycamore, young oak and nettles. The boundary is susceptible to root damage and windthrow.

The relict boundary should be maintained. Scrub vegetation and sapling tree growth should be discouraged and cleared to prevent root and windthrow damage. New woodland within the immediate vicinity of the wall should continue to be managed as coppice. Mature trees located on or next to the boundary should be managed in the form of pollarding, thinning or crowning to reduce the risk of root and windthrow damage.


Local

18 418756 440377 Boundary


Relict irregular drystone wall standing no more than 0.80m tall, 0.50m wide with rounded coping stones set on edge. The boundary extends south from the southern edge of Jerrison Wood and serves to separate two fields (now overgrown with scrub vegetation).

Post-Medieval

The boundary is in a poor condition. Vegetation consists of mature sycamore and scrub woodland. The boundary is susceptible to root damage and windthrow.

The relict boundary should be maintained. Scrub vegetation and sapling tree growth should be discouraged and cleared to prevent root and windthrow damage.


Local



19 418777 440419 Boundary

Regular Drystone Wall

Relict regular drystone wall orientated north south and supporting a access way for an east-west orientated track. The boundary stands 1.50m tall and up to 0.60m wide. The wall is capped with angular coping stones arranged in a crenulated pattern. The boundary serves to divide Jerrison Wood from Spring Wood.

post-Medieval

The boundary is in a good condition. Vegetation consists of coppiced sycamore and dense brambles and nettles.

The relict boundary should be maintained. Scrub vegetation and sapling tree growth should be discouraged and cleared to prevent root and windthrow damage.


Local

20 418822 440382 Gatepost

A single gritstone gatepost supporting a rectangular cut socket which extends through its east and west face. The gatepost stands 1.70m tall, 0.50m wide and 0.25m deep.

Post-Medieval

The feature is in a good condition. Vegetation consists of dense brambles and bracken.

The features should be monitored and maintained.


Local

21 418891 440313 Trackway

Holloway

North-south orientated holloway running parallel and to the east of the woodland boundary. The holloway measures up to 2.0m wide and 0.60m deep. To the south the feature is truncated by later landscaping works.

Post-Medieval

The feature is in a good condition. Vegetation consists of mature oak and sycamore, sapling/young beech and oak, brambles and bluebells.



Local



22 418901 440256 Structure

Plinth Raised square plinth measuring 1.0m² and up to 1.0m tall. The base of the plinth is constructed with a mixture of cut and irregular mortared gritstone. The plinth capping consists of a single dressed gritstone slab. On the top of the plinth are six iron fittings.

Modern




Local

23 418850 440152 Structure

20th century concrete structure possibly relating to the water treatment (sewage) works. The structure is located on the summit of a south-facing escarpment overlooking the water treatment works and access route. The structure measures c.3.0m² and stands 1.50m tall above ground. Access into the structure is from the southeast. A single 'diamond'-shaped window is located on the western face.

Modern




Local



24 419092 440172 Sewage Vent Pipe

A single sewage vent pipe (stink pipe) produced by Adams Hydraulics Ltd York. The post is located within the southeast corner of an area of woodland (Spring Wood) adjacent to Spring Road. The general area has been extensively landscaped as part of the water treatment (sewage) works.

Modern

The feature is in a good condition.



Local

25 419086 440254 Structure

Cistern Linear cistern orientated northeast-southwest. The cistern is belowground but its location is represented by a ditch measuring up to 2.0m wide and 1.0m deep. The feature is fed from Guiseley Beck to the northeast. To the southeast the cistern fed precipitation tanks (now removed) once located within the woodland.

Modern

The feature is in a good condition. Vegetation consists of dense brambles and young holly, silver birch and beech.



Local



26 418524 440048 Veteran Tree

Oak A single veteran oak of possible late medieval date. The tree forms part of The Park as represent of the 1893 First County Series Survey. The tree measures up to 4.00m in circumference and stands up to 20.0m tall.

Medieval




Regional

27 418501 440060 Veteran Tree

Oak A single veteran oak of possible late medieval date. The tree forms part of The Park as represent of the 1893 First County Series Survey. The tree measures up to 4.50m in circumference and stands up to 30.0m tall.

Medieval




Regional

28 419124 440193 Trackway

Terraced Track

Spring Road cuts through Spring Wood following the Guiseley Beck. The track shows evidence it was once cobbled and supported drains on either side. In places the track was flanked by regular dressed drystone walls up to 1.50m tall and 0.60m wide.

Post-Medieval

The feature is in fair condition. Vegetation consists of ivy, brambles and young/mature sycamore and beech.

The features should be monitored and maintained. Where possible relict boundaries should be maintained and scrub and sapling tree growth discouraged to prevent further root damage and risk of windthrow.

Map Ref: 1893 First County Series Survey; Photograph Ref: P1050817

Local



29 418371 440201 Structure

Possible loading platform located within the north of St Paul's Wood. The feature is recorded on the 1934 Third Revision 1:2500 First County Series Survey. It is located at the southwest end of the precipitation tanks constructed as part of the water works complex. The feature measures c.15.0m long (north-south) by 5.0m wide (east-west) access was from the south. The platform measures up to 1.0m tall with the possible loading area at it's northern end. The feature was constructed using dressed stone and concrete.

Modern

The feature is in a fair condition. Vegetation consists of dense ivy and brambles, as well as young holly and sycamore. Much of the feature obscured by demolition waste.

The features should be monitored and maintained. Scrub and sapling tree growth discouraged to prevent further root damage and risk of windthrow.


Local

30 418379 440012 Gatepost

Single gatepost located at the southeast corner of St Paul's Wood on the northern bank of the River Aire. The gritstone post stands 1.20m tall, 0.40m wide and 0.20m deep. A single hinge survives on its east-face.

Post-Medieval

The feature is in a good condition. Vegetation consist of brambles and bluebells.



Local



31 418879 439965 Pond Fish Pond

Oval fish pond recorded on the 1893 First County Series Survey. The pond is preserved within an area of mixed deciduous and conifer woodland. It measures c.30.0m north-south by 20.0m east-west. The pond is fed from the north and includes two brick lined overflows to the south.

Post-Medieval

The feature is in a fair condition. Vegetation consists of mature conifer and silver birch, ash, beech and sycamore.


Map Ref: 1893 First County Series Survey; Photograph Ref: P1050825, P1050826

Regional

32 418855 439987 Cairn Cairn constructed of large unworked quarried sandstone. On a number of stones plug and feather marks are visible. The cairn extends c.20.0m north-south by 7.0m east-west.

Post-Medieval

The feature is in a good condition.



Local



33 418997 439963 Mineral Railway

Railway

Site of mineral (small-gauge) railway recorded on the 1934 1:2500 Third Revision First County Series Survey. The site is represented by a low east-facing terrace standing up to 1.0m tall which extends south from Westfield Lane. The site is located within an area of mixed deciduous plantation. To the west an additional branch of the railway utilised the terraced track which provided access to the precipitation tanks.

Modern



Map Ref: 1934 1:2500 Third Revision First County Series Survey; Photograph Ref: P1050829, P1050830

Local

34 419059 439385 Veteran Tree

Sycamore

Area of veteran sycamore plantation consisting of at least nine trees surrounded by much younger conifer , oak, silver birch and beech plantation. The veteran sycamores appear on the 1893 First County Series Survey.

Post-Medieval

The woodland is in a good condition. Trees are susceptible to windthrow damage.

The trees should be monitored and where necessary managed to prevent loss.

Map Ref: 1893 12500 First County Series Survey; Photograph Ref: P1050831

Regional



35 419039 439283 Boundary

Regular Wall

Regular wall and gateway marking the western edge of Westfield Lane as it extends north towards Esholt Hall and the site of Home Farm. The wall stands up to 1.10m tall and 0.50m wide. The summit of the bonded regular dressed stone wall supports rounded coping stones set on edge. The gateway provides access to a lane (which extends southwest towards the River Aire) recorded on the 1934 Third Revision First County Series Survey. The gateway measures 4.0m wide and is flanked by two regular dressed square mortared columns with single worked gritstone capping stone.

Modern

The boundary is in a good condition. Vegetation consists of coppiced beech, mature conifer and young silver birch and oak plantation. The boundary is susceptible to root damage and windthrow.

The boundary should be maintained. Scrub vegetation and sapling tree growth should be discouraged and cleared to prevent root and windthrow damage.


Local



Appendix 2: Distribution Map



Appendix 3: Historic Mapping Esholt as depicted on the 1893 1:2500 First County Series Survey



Esholt reproduced from the 1922 1:2500 Second Revision First County Series Survey



Esholt reproduced from the 1934 1:2500 Third Revision First County Series Survey



Appendix 4: Digital Archive

Included with this report is a CD-Rom which contains a digital archive for use by the

landowner and regional Historic Environment Record.

The digital archive includes:

PDF digital copy of this report – PP21-260718 YW Esholt Report

Excel survey database – PP21-260718 Archaeological Survey Database

Digital photographic archive – PP21-260718 Archaeological Survey

Photographs

GIS Shapefiles of historic mapping data – PP21-260718 Archaeological

Survey Shapefiles



Appendix 5: About the Author and Pennine Prospects

At the time of this reports production, the author Christopher Atkinson was in

employment with Pennine Prospects as part of the Celebrating Our Woodland

Heritage Project. As Woodland Heritage Officer, Chris was tasked with carrying out

a programme of archaeological woodland surveys across the South Pennines. Chris

has been in full time employment as an archaeologist since 2006, during which time

he has been employed by Herefordshire Council’s archaeology service as

Community Archaeologist (2006-2013); Project Officer for the National Trust (2015)

and self-employed (2013-2016). He is experienced in landscape survey, site

excavation, geophysical survey, desk-based assessment, use of GIS techniques

(including MapInfo Professional; ArcGIS and QGIS) and the production of

management plans for clients such as Natural England and Historic England.

He holds an undergraduate degree in Archaeology from the University of Wales

Lampeter (2004) and a Masters with distinction in Landscape Archaeology from the

University of Sheffield (2015).

Pennine Prospects is a unique rural regeneration company created in 2005 as a

champion for the South Pennines, the dramatic upland landscape that stands

prominently above the urban centres of Greater Manchester, the Lancashire valleys

and West Yorkshire. It is an award-winning partnership organisation that has

attracted over £5 million of national and European funding to deliver a wide range of

projects aimed at promoting, protecting and enhancing the built, natural and cultural

heritage of the South Pennines.

Pennine Prospects lies at the heart of a well-established partnership bringing

together six local authorities, two water companies, government agencies and the

voluntary sector. The company is strongly committed to sustainable development

and enables partner organisations, local residents and businesses to maximise the

benefit of the area’s rich natural, cultural and heritage assets.

Through its activities, Pennine Prospects supports the economy of the South

Pennines by uncovering, highlighting and promoting all that is special about the area.

In addition, the company develops community projects, promotes access to the

uplands and waterways and connects people with their landscape.

celebrating our woodland heritage yorkshire water property ......the yorkshire water property of...

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