Ashclyst Forest

About this route

Ashclyst Forest, one of Devon’s largest woodlands, lies just outside Exeter and offers a haven for wildlife and nature enthusiasts. Managed by the National Trust, the forest is a mix of ancient woodland and more recent plantations, providing a rich habitat for a variety of species. It is renowned for its spring bluebell displays and vibrant autumn colors. The forest supports birds like woodpeckers, nuthatches, and tawny owls, as well as butterflies such as the silver-washed fritillary – and the rare pearl bordered fritillary. Its shady paths and open glades make it a popular destination for walkers, cyclists, and those looking to connect with nature. Conservation efforts focus on protecting its ancient trees, improving biodiversity, and enhancing visitor experiences.

Getting Around

By car: From Broadclyst follow the B3181 north towards Cullompton. Go straight past the junction to Killerton house and garden. Take the next right signposted to Ashclyst.

 

By bus: Services from Exeter to Tiverton, alight Killerton Turn, then walking distance of 1.5 miles towards Cullompton. More information at stagecoachbus.com

Facilities
Car park, toilets, dogs allowed. Cafe at Killerton.
Terrain
Uneven terrain
Accessibility

Interesting information

Butterflies are the main wildlife attraction in Ashclyst. The mix of habitats supports a great variety, although they fly at different times of the year. The rarest butterflies are the white admiral, small pearl-bordered fritillary, dark green fritillary and silver-washed fritillary. You can expect to see orange-tip, ringlet, common blue, large skipper, gatekeeper, speckled wood, marbled-white, green-veined white, purple hairstreak, brown hairstreak and brown argus too.

Ashclyst forest National Trust images James Beck
Conifer trees in Ashclyst Forest at Killerton, Devon - James Beck, National Trust Images

You can explore more in this area

Photo of Killerton Chapel
6miles/
9.6kms

Exeter to Killerton

This route takes you from Exeter (Pennsylvania and University Campus) to Killerton.  The distance shown is for one way; there
Photo of Killerton Chapel
6miles/
9.6kms

Exeter to Killerton

This route takes you from Exeter (Pennsylvania and University Campus) to Killerton.  The distance shown is for one way; there
Photo of Killerton Chapel

Killerton Park

The area around Killerton shows signs of having experienced high levels of volcanic activity about 285 million years ago. Evidence
Photo of Killerton Chapel

Killerton Park

The area around Killerton shows signs of having experienced high levels of volcanic activity about 285 million years ago. Evidence
Photo of Killerton Chapel

Killerton Park

The area around Killerton shows signs of having experienced high levels of volcanic activity about 285 million years ago. Evidence