Woodland Walks

On June 8th 2001, a group of paths covering about half of the woodland will be officially opened to the public. A notice board will be erected containing a map of the site and the route of the available paths. The series of paths represents an interim arrangement while we source funding for creating a far more comprehensive and well signposted woodland walk.

It is planned that the woodland walk will eventually incorporate discrete information plaques to give visitors greater insight into the nature of the wood, its flora, fauna and history. We also plan to produce a set of themed activity/information leaflets to accompany the trails - ideas would be appreciated.

You are welcome to walk around the woodland, however please respect our privacy. The settlement area is not part of the woodland walk and is not a public area. If you wish to visit us rather than the woodland then please read this.

The provision of new public access does not mean that the paths have become public rights of way. We may close the paths occasionally to allow forestry work to be carried out, although we will try to provide advanced warning of when this may be done.

Walkway & cycle track

We are working with Devon County Council and the Moretonhampstead Pathways Trust to assist in the establishment of a cycle track and walkway from Moreton to Bovey Tracey via the old railway track that passes along the bottom of Steward Wood. We have been negotiating a lease with the country council which should be signed early in 2001. The cycle path will hopefully be contructed within three years.

One exciting possibility that we have discussed with the Head of Trees & Woodland at Dartmoor National Park, is linking the paths through our woodland with the adjoining woods that are owned by the National Park. This would potentially provide public access right along the wooded valley side, and link up with the cycle path and walkway.

Wildlife pond and picnic area

As part of the woodland walk and walkway/cycle track, a picnic and play area may be created for public enjoyment. Our initial thoughts are that this would be best positioned at the north western end of the disused railway track close to the pond. This pond has until recently been used as a dump and is currently an eyesore. The pond will be cleaned up and turned into a beautiful and valuable wildlife habitat. Grant funding will be applied for to help finance this project.

See also: How to get here