Buck's Wood

Wood, Forest in Devon Torridge

England

Buck's Wood

St Ann's church, Bucks Mills, Devon This church was built in 1861 by the Elwes family, who were the former landowners, for the estate workers. It nestles peacefully in this wooded valley, and is constructed from local stone. The remains of
the quarry is now its car park. — St Ann's church, Bucks Mills, Devon Credit: Derek Voller

Buck's Wood is a picturesque forest located in the county of Devon, England. Situated in the heart of the Dartmoor National Park, this enchanting woodland covers an area of approximately 500 acres and is a popular destination for nature lovers, hikers, and outdoor enthusiasts.

Renowned for its diverse ecosystem, Buck's Wood is home to a wide array of flora and fauna. The forest boasts an impressive variety of trees, including ancient oaks, beech, ash, and birch, which create a dense and verdant canopy overhead. The forest floor is carpeted with vibrant wildflowers, ferns, and mosses, adding to the enchanting atmosphere.

Traversing through Buck's Wood, visitors can explore numerous walking trails that wind their way through the forest. These trails cater to different abilities and provide opportunities to witness the beauty of the woodland firsthand. The paths are well-maintained, ensuring a pleasant and safe experience for visitors.

Nature enthusiasts will be delighted by the abundance of wildlife that calls Buck's Wood home. The forest is a haven for various bird species, including woodpeckers, owls, and songbirds, making it a haven for birdwatchers. Additionally, deer, foxes, and small mammals such as squirrels and rabbits can often be spotted darting through the undergrowth.

Buck's Wood offers a tranquil escape from the hustle and bustle of everyday life. Its natural beauty, diverse wildlife, and well-preserved trails make it an ideal destination for those seeking a peaceful and immersive experience in the heart of Devon's countryside.

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Buck's Wood Images

Images are sourced within 2km of 50.986392/-4.3445906 or Grid Reference SS3523. Thanks to Geograph Open Source API. All images are credited.

St Ann's church, Bucks Mills, Devon

This church was built in 1861 by the Elwes family, who were the former landowners, for the estate workers. It nestles peacefully in this wooded valley, and is constructed from local stone. The remains of the quarry is now its car park.

Derek Voller

Cottages at Bucks Mills, Devon

Derek Voller

Cottages at Bucks Mills, Devon

Derek Voller

The lane through Bucks Mills, Devon

Derek Voller

The fast running stream that passes through the village of Bucks Mills, Devon

Derek Voller

The lane through Bucks Mills, Devon

Derek Voller

The slipway and harbour at Bucks Mills, Devon

The square building is all that remains of the old 19th century lime kiln. This picture also shows the steep path up to the village.

Derek Voller

The slipway at Bucks Mills, Devon

Derek Voller

Bottom of the steep path onto the beach and slipway at Bucks Mills, Devon

Jutting out into the sea can be seen the "Gore", a pebble bank which legend has it that the Devil was building a causeway to Lundy Island, but gave up when the handle of his shovel broke.

Derek Voller

The steep path down to the sea at Bucks Mills, Devon

Derek Voller

The village of Bucks Mills, Devon

Ahead is the beginning of the steep path, complete with warning notice, that descends to the beach below

Derek Voller

The village of Bucks Mills, Devon

Most of the dwellings in the village were built between 1812 and 1835 and were of mostly a few rooms. There was a water mill that pre-dated this but had no proper village around it. It was powered by the fast flowing stream that runs down the steep valley to the sea, finally ending up as a waterfall cascading on to the beach. Here was a small harbour constructed to unload the boats full of corn from farms up the coast and over on Lundy Island. The Napoleonic Wars created a need for more land for cultivation, which also created a need for lime as fertiliser for the poor soil, and so two beach-side kilns were built. This increased the population in a village that couldn't expand due to its narrow geographical location. Overcrowding was intense. Many parents reared six or so children in just a couple of rooms. It was a very tight, insular community that gained a reputation of hostility towards incomers. Close intermarriage during the 19th century caused Bucks Mills to be known as "The village with one surname".

Derek Voller