The Blackdown Hills AONB, spanning the Devon-Somerset border, is a tranquil landscape of rolling hills, steep valleys, and rich biodiversity. Designated in 1991, it features flat-topped plateaus, ancient woodlands, and the unique geology of chert and greensand ridges. Traditional farmland, with small fields and hedgerows, supports rare orchids, butterflies, and birds like skylarks and barn owls, while wetlands and Culm grasslands are home to otters and marsh fritillaries. Steeped in history, the area boasts Iron Age hillforts, Roman roads, and landmarks like the Wellington Monument. Protected for its beauty and ecological importance, it offers serene walking and cycling trails.
The population of white-clawed crayfish in the River Culm within the Blackdown Hills is one of only two remaining in Devon. Blackdown Hills National Landscape are working hard to discover more about the white-clawed crayfish in the River Culm and finding ways to protect it from extinction.
Contact email
customer@devon.gov.ukContact number
0345 155 1015