haldon forest walk - march 2024
Newton St Cyres Ramblers
Our walk on 24th March was led by Anne Rice and started from the main car park at Haldon Forest Park. The Park launched in 2006 and has grown to become one of Devon’s most loved outdoor destinations. The forest itself covers almost 1,500 hectares across the Haldon Hills. It contains around half a million trees and is large part is designated a Site of Special Scientific Interest. The Visitor Centre and trails are part of a working forest managed to International standards of sustainability. In addition to the growing of timber, it provides places for people to connect with nature and for wildlife to thrive.
Our walk followed the Butterfly trail, which is the longest of the three trails at 4 miles. The others are the Discovery (1.5 miles) & the Raptor (3 miles). The Butterfly trail shares the start with the Discovery trail before turning off at the waymark to the right. The trails are all clearly marked and maps are available, but as some sections are shared with cyclists, runners and dogs care is needed when using the trails. The number of cars parked up would have made you think it would be full, but once dispersed along the different trails/areas it was a very peaceful and enjoyable walk. The trails are mixed terrain and all of the recent rainfall had made some parts muddy. The first half of the walk was mostly flat with wonderful views out over the Estuary. The second half was a mix of downhill followed by a steep climb back up to the car park, where we all enjoyed well-earned refreshments from The Ridge café!
Although our walk did not coincide with sightings of butterflies, it was easy to see how the habitat was perfect for many butterfly species. Over 30 species sightings have been recorded, including the Pearl-bordered fritillary which is one of Britain’s rarest.
Visitors with reduced mobility can also explore the Butterfly trail by hiring a Tramper, an off-road mobility vehicle, via the Countryside Mobility scheme.
Those looking for additional activities at the Forest Park can enjoy Nordic Walking, Tai-Chi, Couch to 5K and Go-Ape with high ropes and zip wires.
All are welcome to join our walks and details are published in the Newton Wonder each month.
Nicola Baker
Our walk on 24th March was led by Anne Rice and started from the main car park at Haldon Forest Park. The Park launched in 2006 and has grown to become one of Devon’s most loved outdoor destinations. The forest itself covers almost 1,500 hectares across the Haldon Hills. It contains around half a million trees and is large part is designated a Site of Special Scientific Interest. The Visitor Centre and trails are part of a working forest managed to International standards of sustainability. In addition to the growing of timber, it provides places for people to connect with nature and for wildlife to thrive.
Our walk followed the Butterfly trail, which is the longest of the three trails at 4 miles. The others are the Discovery (1.5 miles) & the Raptor (3 miles). The Butterfly trail shares the start with the Discovery trail before turning off at the waymark to the right. The trails are all clearly marked and maps are available, but as some sections are shared with cyclists, runners and dogs care is needed when using the trails. The number of cars parked up would have made you think it would be full, but once dispersed along the different trails/areas it was a very peaceful and enjoyable walk. The trails are mixed terrain and all of the recent rainfall had made some parts muddy. The first half of the walk was mostly flat with wonderful views out over the Estuary. The second half was a mix of downhill followed by a steep climb back up to the car park, where we all enjoyed well-earned refreshments from The Ridge café!
Although our walk did not coincide with sightings of butterflies, it was easy to see how the habitat was perfect for many butterfly species. Over 30 species sightings have been recorded, including the Pearl-bordered fritillary which is one of Britain’s rarest.
Visitors with reduced mobility can also explore the Butterfly trail by hiring a Tramper, an off-road mobility vehicle, via the Countryside Mobility scheme.
Those looking for additional activities at the Forest Park can enjoy Nordic Walking, Tai-Chi, Couch to 5K and Go-Ape with high ropes and zip wires.
All are welcome to join our walks and details are published in the Newton Wonder each month.
Nicola Baker
