Heaths in Devon

Heath wildlife areas in Devon are distinctive, open landscapes dominated by low-growing shrubs such as heather, gorse, and bilberry. Found mainly on poor, acidic soils, these heathlands—particularly prominent in places like East Devon and Dartmoor—support a unique range of wildlife adapted to these nutrient-poor conditions. Species such as the Dartford warbler, nightjar, and silver-studded blue butterfly thrive in this habitat, making it a vital refuge for rare and specialist fauna. Rich in ecological value and cultural heritage, Devon’s heathlands are the result of centuries of traditional grazing and burning practices, and their continued conservation is essential for maintaining biodiversity and supporting climate resilience.

Ashculm Turbary

Ashculm Turbary is a 7-hectare nature reserve in the Blackdown Hills, managed by Devon Wildlife Trust. It features rare wet-peatland

Hawkswood

Hawkswood is a 4-hectare nature reserve managed by the Devon Wildlife Trust, located near the village of Stockland in East

Meeth Quarry Nature Reserve

Meeth Quarry Nature Reserve, managed by Devon Wildlife Trust (DWT), is a vital wildlife site in North Devon, known for

Aylesbeare Common

Aylesbeare Common is recognised as a Site of Special Scientific Interest (SSSI) and a Natura 2000 site. You can enjoy

Bovey Heathfield

Bovey Heathfield is a remnant of lowland heathland that was once much more common in the area. It has suffered

Photo looking out over Stover Lake through trees

Stover Country Park Wildlife

Stover Country Park covers 114 acres which consist of six main habitats types: freshwater, marshland, coniferous plantation, mixed broadleaved woodland,

Dunsdon

Dunsdon reserve is an excellent example of a marshy, heathy type of vegetation known locally as Culm Grassland. There are

Photo of a trail through woodland at Yarner Woods

East Dartmoor woods and heaths

The East Dartmoor woods and heaths is a National Nature Reserve consisting of three adjacent sites – Yarner Woods, Trendlebere

Trinity Hill

Trinity Hill is an area of lowland heathland that is rich in wildlife. Heathers that form a wash of colour

Pebblebed Heaths

The magnificent East Devon Pebblebed Heaths complex is the largest block of lowland heath in Devon. The site’s large area