The Borrowdale Rainforest NNR comprises a series of native woodlands in the Borrowdale Valley, near Keswick, Cumbria. It is owned and managed by the National Trust. The Borrowdale Valley includes the wettest inhabited place in England. The rainfall at the top (south) end of the valley is more than twice that at the bottom end, near Keswick. The trees and boulders are dripping with lush vegetation, rich in mosses, ferns and lichens. The NNR covers 721.18 ha. Features of interest The Borrowdale Rainforest is a series of upland woodlands of native trees including oak, birch, ash, holly, hazel and rowan. It is the most important place in England for mosses and liverworts dependent on a damp, ‘oceanic’ climate and the most important site in northern England for oceanic lichens. It contains an important concentration of ancient and veteran trees that have provided a long continuity of conditions for many of these species. It also supports a good population of upland woodland birds, many of which are declining elsewhere, and red squirrels. The geology tells the story of the formation of the Lake District from Ordovician volcanos to the much later action of ice-age glaciers. The NNR also contains transitions to more open habitats such as wood pastures, grasslands, wetlands and uplands, and some land where the aim is to develop additional wooded habitats to start expanding and reconnecting the rainforest. Further information is available on the National Trust website. Safety and access The woodlands are open to the public and there are many footpaths through them. Great Wood, Ashness Bridge, Seatoller and the Bowder Stone car parks are ideally positioned to step straight into the rainforest. There are also regular bus services up the Borrowdale Valley from Keswick. Some of the lower lying paths are suitable for most abilities but many of the woodlands are on steep, rocky valley sides that are rough underfoot and slippery in wet conditions. Mountain weather conditions can change rapidly and anyone venturing far from the valley floor should be properly equipped and know how to read a map. Read the ‘Planning your visit to the Lake District’ guidance on the National Trust website. Dogs are welcome but should be kept under close control to avoid disturbing wildlife and livestock. Read the visiting with your dog guidance on the National Trust website. Contacts National Trust: borrowdalerainforests@nationaltrust.org.uk Natural England general enquiries:
Email: enquiries@naturalengland.org.uk
Telephone: 0300 060 6000