Runcorn
Woodland Trust wood group
Size:
15.47 ha (38.23 acres)
Grid reference:
SJ557802
Map reference:
Explorer 275
OS Landranger 108
A varied mix of semi-natural ancient woodland and open grassland with babbling streams, Murdishaw Wood is an oasis of natural calm on the outskirts of Runcorn. Explore the wood via the network of surfaced paths and discover the varied habitats. Visit in spring and summer to be greeted by wild flowers in the meadows as well as woodland flora.
The wood is connected to Murdishaw Valley, and together the sites are designated a Local Nature Reserve and Local Wildlife Site. They provide a valuable refuge for a wide range of birds as well as some familiar animals like foxes and badgers.
The 16.3-hectare (40.4-acre) Murdishaw Wood is sat next to the Runcorn Linnets Football Club in Runcorn, Cheshire. It has three distinct sections which are separated by roads: Stockham Wood, Murdishaw Wood West and Murdishaw Wood East.
From Runcorn, head east on the A533 and then towards Northwich/Chester. After 4.8km (3 miles), take the first exit at the roundabout onto Murdishaw Avenue.
The nearest train station is Runcorn East, which is around 1.6km (1 mile) from the wood.
Visit National Rail for more information.
The nearest bus stop is by Ormiston Bolingbroke Academy. Services run from Runcorn.
Visit Traveline for more information.
There are multiple entrance points. The main entrance for Murdishaw and Stockham Woods is off Murdishaw Avenue, to the west of the main body of woodland. There is an extensive network of surfaced paths suitable for year-round use, although some areas are steep and there are some steps.
There is parking in the nearby Murdishaw Valley car park off Murdishaw Avenue.
There are no public toilets nearby. The closest are in the Brookvale Recreation Centre off Barnfield Avenue, Runcorn.
The wood provides an important habitat for local bats, foxes and squirrels as well as a wide range of bird species. The ground flora, in particular, attracts a number of butterflies and other insects, and dragonflies flit by close to the ponds and streams.
Look out for:
Murdishaw Wood is mixed broadleaf with grassland and has something of interest all year round. Visit this semi-natural ancient woodland in spring and you’ll be met with a sea of vivid bluebell, dotted with sunny, yellow celandine and tiny white wood anemone.
Stockham Wood is dominated by oak and Scots pine.
Look out for:
The mixed canopies and wetland areas at Murdishaw Wood provide valuable habitats for local wildlife; while the ancient woodland sections boast specialised flora.
Explore:
Visiting woods
Dogs are welcome for walkies in our woods. Take a look at our tips and guidelines for ensuring we keep our woods safe and special for dogs and wildlife.
Visiting woods
Discover events at our woods and the festivals and fairs you can find us at soon.
Visiting woods
Go on an adventure. Get closer to nature. Uncover history. Discover ways to explore the UK's woods whatever the season.
