Interesting information
Halsdon is a Site of Special Scientific Interest (SSSI).
Halsdon consists of a mixture of ancient woodland, floodplain meadows and a magnificent length of the River Torridge immortalised by the tale of Tarka the Otter. The woodland is predominantly of oak, but other species are present including the uncommon Devon whitebeam and wild service tree. The woodland has a rich ground flora including primroses, wild garlic and broad-leaved helleborine. Marshy fields alongside the river support such plants as devil’s bit scabious and march cinquefoil. Kingfishers and dippers can be seen, and all three species of woodpecker breed in the reserve. Halsdon is a favoured haunt for otters and the river is famous for its run of salmon.
By car: From Great Torrington take the B3220 south-east to Beaford. From here, take the minor road towards Dolton and then the next right turn. Follow this road for about 1.5 miles until you reach a track on the right with a Devon Wildlife Trust sign (SS 577133). Follow this to the Ashwell car park or continue on the minor road to the Quarry car park.
Halsdon is a Site of Special Scientific Interest (SSSI).
Stretching for over 52km / 32 miles from Braunton to Barnstaple, then to Instow, Bideford, Great Torrington and on to Meeth. …
Running for just over 100 miles/160km between Ivybridge in the south and Lynmouth in the north, this famous path links the…
Inspired by Henry Williamson’s much loved novel ‘Tarka the Otter’ which was based on real places, this 163 miles/261kms recreation route…
Entirely traffic free, this part of the Tarka Trail can be enjoyed in sections to suit your group. This off-road route stretches for over…