Strid Shop opening

On Tuesday, 25th October 2005 The Duchess of Devonshire DL officially opened the new Strid Shop.

Prior to this new beautiful building, a modest timber kiosk stood, from which refreshments gifts and Christmas trees were sold and those enjoying Strid Wood and the wider Estate were welcomed. The old kiosk was rather tired and the Estate recognized it was simply inadequate for the 21st century and the visitors' needs

The new shop and car park improvements were designed to reflect the natural landscape of Estate and indeed the wider area, in particular the abundance of drystone walling, the predominance of oak in Strid Wood and the surrounding mosaic of heather and bilberry moorland. This careful attention to detail coupled with the use of local material and implementation of old fashioned techniques ensures the building blends in.

Strid Wood is a Site of Special Scientific Interest, an area of national environmental importance. The Estate staff have tried to ensure therefore that the design not only reflects this sensitive environment but is in sympathy with it. Ben Heyes, Agent on the Bolton Abbey Estate hopes that they have not only achieved this but have also enhanced the Estate, the wider landscape and of course the experience of our visitors.

Inside the shop interpretation panels illustrate the flora and fauna that visitors to Strid Wood can expect to see whilst walking through this ancient woodland. The extensive range of giftware in the shop also reflects the natural environment with products ranging from bird tables, nesting boxes, through maps and books focusing on the area to Aigle walking boots and clothing.