Brownsham Wood

Wood, Forest in Devon Torridge

England

Brownsham Wood

Brownsham Wood is a picturesque woodland located in Devon, England. Situated within the parish of Hartland, this enchanting forest covers an area of approximately 10 hectares. It is nestled on a steep hillside, overlooking the stunning North Devon coastline, offering visitors breathtaking views of the Atlantic Ocean.

The woodland is predominantly made up of native broadleaf trees, including beech, oak, and hazel. These trees create a dense canopy, allowing only fragments of sunlight to filter through, creating an ethereal atmosphere. The forest floor is covered in a rich carpet of mosses, ferns, and wildflowers, adding to the magical ambiance of the woodland.

Brownsham Wood is a haven for wildlife, providing a sanctuary for a variety of species. Visitors may encounter an array of birdlife, such as woodpeckers, thrushes, and owls. The forest is also home to small mammals like badgers, foxes, and squirrels, which can often be seen darting among the trees.

The woodland offers a network of well-maintained footpaths, allowing visitors to explore its beauty at their own pace. These paths wind through the ancient trees, leading to hidden clearings and secluded spots, perfect for a peaceful picnic or nature observation.

Managed by the National Trust, Brownsham Wood offers an immersive experience for nature enthusiasts and those seeking tranquility. With its stunning views, diverse flora and fauna, and peaceful atmosphere, Brownsham Wood is a hidden gem in Devon that captivates visitors with its natural beauty.

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Brownsham Wood Images

Images are sourced within 2km of 51.010189/-4.4282646 or Grid Reference SS2926. Thanks to Geograph Open Source API. All images are credited.

Mouthmill Beach

Mark Percy

View to Clovelly Court

View to Clovelly Court from the South West Coast Path.

Philip Halling

The South West Coast Path, near Clovelly Court

The South West Coast Path passing through woodland near Clovelly Court.

Philip Halling

The coast path near Clovelly

The South West Coast Path passing through woodland near Clovelly.

Philip Halling

Angel Wings, near Clovelly

The Angel Wings is a folly on the coast path to the west of Clovelly, it was carved by a former butler from Clovelly Court in the early 19th century. It was built for Sir James Hamlyn Williams, a former owner of Clovelly. It was located here so that he could look across Bideford Bay to where his daughter, Lady Chichester, lived at Youlston. The structure is Grade II listed. My GPS reading differs slightly to the one given by Historic England. Historic England description Seat with canopy. Wooden dateplaque to S.:"1826" restored "1934 by Boon Bros. Boatbuilders of Northam. Wooden structure with a pyramidal shingled roof which is bellcast, lead flashing at the angles and apex, capped by a large stone ball finial. Square on plan. Central tapering square pillar with floral carving on each face, at the base of the pillar a slatted wooden bench; the pillar supports the roof principally on 4 large curving struts carved like the wings of angels, further uncarved cusped strusts set above; soffit with carved angel busts in relief. Situated on the edge of the cliffs with wide views out to sea. An unusual romantic structure, part of the landscaped park created by Sir James Hamlyn in the late C18/early C19 around Clovelly Court. Source: W G Hoskins, Devon, P370; Private archive at Clovelly Court. Source: Link

Philip Halling

Cliffs below Galantry Bower

A vertiginous spot above near vertical cliffs viewed from the South West Coast Path near Galantry Bower. The headland ends with Blackchurch Rock which is just visible below the end of the cliff.

Philip Halling