Berry Down

Downs, Moorland in Cornwall

England

Berry Down

On SW Coast Path - view W above Trethill Cliffs Credit: Colin Park

Berry Down is a picturesque region located in Cornwall, England. Situated on the outskirts of the town of Bideford, it encompasses a vast expanse of downs and moorland, offering visitors breathtaking views and a serene environment.

The downs of Berry Down are characterized by rolling hills covered in lush grasses and dotted with vibrant wildflowers during the spring and summer months. As visitors traverse the landscape, they can enjoy panoramic vistas of the surrounding countryside, including the nearby coastline and the Bristol Channel. The area is popular among nature enthusiasts and hikers, who can explore the numerous walking trails that crisscross the downs, providing access to hidden valleys and secluded spots.

The moorland of Berry Down adds further diversity to the region's natural beauty. Blanketed with heather and gorse, the moors create a stunning patchwork of colors, particularly during late summer. The moorland is also home to a variety of wildlife, including birds such as skylarks and stonechats, as well as small mammals like rabbits and foxes.

Aside from its natural wonders, Berry Down also holds historical significance. The remnants of ancient settlements can be found scattered across the downs, offering glimpses into the area's rich past. Additionally, the nearby village of Northam boasts several historic buildings and landmarks that attract history enthusiasts.

Overall, Berry Down in Cornwall is a captivating destination that seamlessly combines natural beauty, tranquility, and historical heritage. Whether exploring its downs, wandering through its moorland, or delving into its history, visitors are sure to be captivated by the charm and allure of this remarkable region.

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Berry Down Images

Images are sourced within 2km of 50.374822/-4.2849701 or Grid Reference SX3755. Thanks to Geograph Open Source API. All images are credited.

On SW Coast Path - view W above Trethill Cliffs

Colin Park

Crafthole Village

Crafthole is a village on the hilltop above Portwrinkle. The picture shows part of the old village centre although there are many more 20th century houses in the village.

Tony Atkin

Old farm buildings at Tredrossel

Conversions are taking place, the farthest building has been converted into cottages.

Tony Atkin

Sheviock

Looking east towards the village of Sheviock from Horsepool Road. The freshwater lake in the foreground has been artificially created.

Tony Atkin

Sheviock

A view of the village from the eastern side. The church spire on the right is the Parish Church of St Mary, Sheviock. While this may look an idyllic scene, Sheviock is one of those unfortunate villages which is split by a fast main road. Although some of the traffic actually obeys the 40mph speed limit, this does not really help to make it either peaceful or safe.

Tony Atkin

The A374 east of Sheviock

This stretch of road between the villages of Antony and Polbathic cuts through the low-lying mainly wooded countryside along the south side of Lynher River estuary. Its open curves and good cambers make it a favourite with motor cyclists.

Tony Atkin

Not the way into Wacker Woods

While the footpath looks inviting, the sign warns that it leads into a military training area and that entry is forbidden.

Tony Atkin

Wacker Quay and Warren Point

Looking over the old quayside and across the entrance to the tidal creek called Wacker Lake to the woodlands at Warren Point. Wacker Quay used to be where ammunition and other goods were brought in for the military fortifications of Scraesdon Fort and Tregantle Fort. They were taken up to the forts on a railway line which started here but has long since disappeared.

Tony Atkin

A waterside field

Note the two berry pickers at the field edge.

Tony Atkin

Golf Course near Crafthole

Looking over part of a golf course between Crafthole and the sea cliffs.

Tony Atkin

Entrance to the path by Tregantle Fort

This permissive path is one of the most recently opened sections of the South West Coast Path. It is closed when the MOD firing ranges at Tregantle are being used, at which times walkers must take a detour to the landward side of the fort.

Tony Atkin

World War II Pillbox

This old pillbox sits decaying in the corner of a field.

Tony Atkin

Entrance to Cornish Owl Centre

There are a lot of interesting owls here.

Edward Farrow

Lynher River near Erth Barton

One of the arms of the complex estuary which becomes Plymouth Sound. The Lynher (or St. Germans) River snakes inland for several miles forming numerous tidal creeks. This section varies dramatically between low and high tides.

Rob Farrow

Tidal Marshes, Sconner Turf , St Germans

Photograph taken in winter from high ground close to St Germans railway station south eastwards, down river from Polbathic lake. Sconner Turf Wood is beyond the river. These are the higher reaches of the Lyner, a tidal drowned river valley.

Crispin Purdye

Fort Tregantle from the sea

Jacko

Scraesdon Fort

Used by Marines for Training - used blanks / trip flares all around

Aerial View of Scraesdon Fort and Antony

This picture clearly shows the outline of Scraesdon Fort with its defensive moat filled with mature trees. The village of Antony is in the picture as is Scraesdon Farm and all roads contained within the 1km square map image.

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Berry Down is located at Grid Ref: SX3755 (Lat: 50.374822, Lng: -4.2849701)

Unitary Authority: Cornwall

Police Authority: Devon and Cornwall