THERE is an incredibly rare opportunity to buy "much cherished" woodland in the Bradford district.

Goit Stock Wood, a few miles from Bingley, extends to about 70 acres, and offers are being sought in the region of £195,000.

The current owners, Paul and Julie Davis, are selling the woodland, which is open to the public, as they look ahead towards their future retirement.

Mr Davis said: “We have owned Goit Stock Woods for over 20 years and have made some fantastic memories there.

"The time has now come for us to sell the woods and give someone else the opportunity to own a much-cherished part of our local history.”

The wood has become a haven for wildlife, including deer, while the Hallas and Harden Becks run through it, which are home to trout and grayling.

The valley was carved out during the last ice age and the differential weathering of the grit stone and shales has led to the creation of several waterfalls, including the Goit Stock Waterfall. 

Andrew Black, director of the rural agency team at Savills, which is handling the sale, said: “This is an incredibly rare opportunity to acquire a historic woodland to include a well-known landmark in Goit Stock Waterfall.

"It is likely to be of interest to those seeking property with high landscape, amenity and conservation value and we anticipate its beauty and tranquillity will capture the hearts of many interested parties."

The Savills listing says: "Whilst the section below the waterfall is locally referred to as the hidden valley that was not always the case.

"At one time there were six mills on the beck and for a period the former Goit Stock Mill was utilised as a cafe and ballroom before it burnt down in 1927 - the valley was a popular visitor attraction.

"Today visitors can enjoy the peaceful surroundings of the attractive woodland which mainly comprises Birch, Oak, Sycamore and Beech trees.

"The Millennium Way footpath follows the southern boundary of the wood before joining the central pathway through the wood and past the waterfall leading onto Hallas Lane.

"The path through the wood varies from a gentle open pathway through to a steeper, more slippery section close to the waterfall where railings have been erected by the council.

"Whilst access for visitors is on foot the purchasers will be granted the right to park in the car park to the south side of Harden Park towards the centre of the woodland.

"For purchasers, this is a rare opportunity to acquire part of the local history of the area to include a well-known landmark which is likely to be also of interest to those seeking property with high landscape, amenity and nature conservation value."

It says there is potential for a mobile cafe or food stall to be used on-site.