The first impression is one of great bleak beauty. When the weather permits, Low Far Side enjoys wide-ranging views of Nidderdale. The views over grasslands and heath reach an extent of 7 miles to Lofthouse Moor to the north. Fortunately, actions have been taken to preserve this great beauty and the unique wildlife this habitat provides. Low Far Side, as a part of Nidderdale, enjoys an Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty status. The AONB are internationally important protected areas. Additionally, Low Far Side enjoys the designation of Site of Importance for Nature Conservation (SINC).
Against the backdrop of the natural heather and grassland that AONB and SINC intend to preserve, Low Far Side bears heavily the marks of human residence in two ways - lead mining and rough dales agriculture. The industrial history is showcased by the Bewerley Industrial Heritage Trail which passes through Low Far Side.
The earliest evidence of lead mining in Greenhow Hill is documented by the Roman occupation of Britain. Lead ingots from Greenhow have been found bearing the names of Trajan and Hadrian which are dated from 81AD to 98AD. On Greenhow Hill, it is often said that lead was mined pre-historically. The mysterious Panty Oon (or Sam Oon) Stone which is just adjacent to Low Far Side has been said to have been a pre-historic ore-grinding stone - unfortunately there is no evidence supporting this.
The 21 acres of Low Far Side are divided into six fields divided by dry stone walls. The dry stone walls of Northern England are often considered picturesque. They are a reminder, however, of the impact that the dales agriculture has had upon the landscape.