Moor Pond Wood

This system runs through Moor Pond Wood in Papplewick and continues towards Bulwell, Nottingham.

Over the years, we have completed several projects in different parts of the wood. These included excavating structural features such as sluice gates (gates used to control water flow) and leats (man-made channels that carry water). We studied how each feature worked within the water system and, in some cases, repaired or reconstructed features, creating points of historical interest within the wood.

The Friends of Moor Pond Wood decide which areas and features they want to study, while York Archaeology provides supervision, advice, and guidance during the excavations. Recent work has included studying and repairing a sluice and culvert structure (a culvert is a covered channel that carries water under a road or path). Excavating a leat to see how water was moved across a main thoroughfare to the cotton mill, and conducting a site audit (a review of the site to plan future work). This information helps the Friends plan their next HLF (Heritage Lottery Fund) bid.

The Friends, working with Nottinghamshire County Council, have improved public access to the site by building and maintaining footpaths and ramps. They also help visitors understand the history of the wood by installing interpretation panels and producing leaflets and trails.

Volunteers include local residents and members of the Friends group who want to learn more about archaeology. Since 2001, York Archaeology has provided training that has helped the group build a strong, sustainable team of volunteers. Their experience and knowledge now allow them to explore and interpret the site in detail, at their own pace.