Wild Croft Copse

Wood, Forest in Devon Mid Devon

England

Wild Croft Copse

Hemyock : St Mary's Church Hemyock Parish Church occupies a central position in the village, alongside Hemyock Castle. — Hemyock : St Mary's Church Credit: Lewis Clarke

Wild Croft Copse is a picturesque woodland located in Devon, England. Spanning over several acres, this enchanting forest is known for its diverse array of flora and fauna, making it a popular destination for nature lovers and outdoor enthusiasts.

The copse is characterized by its dense canopy of towering trees, including oak, beech, and ash, which provide a cool and shaded environment even on the warmest of days. The forest floor is covered in a thick layer of leaf litter, creating a soft and silent carpet that invites visitors to explore its hidden treasures.

Throughout the copse, there are numerous walking trails and pathways that wind their way through the trees, offering visitors the opportunity to immerse themselves in the natural beauty of the area. Along these trails, one may encounter a variety of wildlife, such as deer, foxes, and a wide range of bird species, including woodpeckers and owls.

One of the highlights of Wild Croft Copse is its vibrant display of wildflowers. During the spring and summer months, the forest comes alive with a riot of colors as bluebells, primroses, and wild orchids bloom in abundance.

The copse also boasts a small stream that meanders through its heart, adding to its charm and tranquility. The sound of running water creates a soothing atmosphere, providing a perfect backdrop for those seeking a peaceful retreat from the hustle and bustle of everyday life.

Overall, Wild Croft Copse is a hidden gem in Devon, offering visitors a chance to reconnect with nature and discover the wonders of a truly wild and untouched forest.

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Wild Croft Copse Images

Images are sourced within 2km of 50.898746/-3.2217079 or Grid Reference ST1411. Thanks to Geograph Open Source API. All images are credited.

Hemyock : St Mary's Church

Hemyock Parish Church occupies a central position in the village, alongside Hemyock Castle.

Lewis Clarke

Hemyock : St Mary's Church

The first written record dates from the year 1268, but it is obvious that parts of the building are much older. Remains of Norman arches may be seen in the interior walls of the tower and it would appear that the first church on the site was cruciform in shape with the tower at the centre. Originally the church had a spire on top of the tower, but it was removed in the late 1600’s and may be the reason why the present tower is not very high. The church has had its dedication changed several times. In the 1400’s it was St Mary’s, after the reformation St. George was the patron saint, by the mid 1700’s it was St. Peter’s and it reverted to St. Mary’s in the 1760’s

Lewis Clarke

Hemyock : War Memorial

The war memorial with St Mary's behind it.

Lewis Clarke

Hemyock : St Mary's Church

Cow lanterns in the churchyard.

Lewis Clarke

On Station Road, looking north

Rob Purvis

Hemyock : St Mary's Church

A fete takes place in the church grounds.

Lewis Clarke

Hemyock : St Mary's Church

A lantern parade makes its way to the church.

Lewis Clarke

Hemyock : St Mary's Church

Looking towards lanterns at St Mary's Church.

Lewis Clarke

Hemyock : St Mary's Church

St Mary's Church with a lantern weather vane outside.

Lewis Clarke

Hemyock : St Mary's Church

St Mary's parish church is next to Hemyock Castle, on the other side of St Margaret's Brook.

Lewis Clarke

Hemyock : St Mary's Church

St Mary's parish church is next to Hemyock Castle, on the other side of St Margaret's Brook.

Lewis Clarke

Hemyock: Lickham Bottom

Woodland and farmland. Looking north west

Martin Bodman

Hemyock: approaching Culm Bridge

Looking north east with Culm Bridge Mill, now a private house, on the right, through the trees. This mill was latterly powered by a turbine fed by a leat from the combined waters of the Madford and Bolham rivers. Some machinery survives too and the structure is listed. Over the bridge the left turn leads to Clayhidon

Martin Bodman

Hemyock parish church

Martin Southwood

Bench Lane

Adrian and Janet Quantock

Hemyock: bluebell walk

In the private grounds of Pikes Cottage at Madford where 19 acres of woods and 6 acres of cultivated garden are open to members of the public on certain summer weekends under The National Gardens Scheme - gardens open for charity. The Times featured the estate in 2004. Looking south

Martin Bodman

Hemyock: Scaddings

Prings and Scaddings was site of an 18th century tannery: ‘Devonshire. To be Let for a Term of 7 or 14 years, and entered upon immediately, all that Meffuage and Tenement called by the name of Prings and Scaddings, lately in the possession of Mr Clement Waldron, fituate at Madford, in the parifh of Hemiock .. comprifing of a Dwelling-houfe, Barn, and Outbuildings, and about twenty five acres of very good Orchard, Meadow and Pasture Land, well fituated for a Tannery, that Bufinefs having recently been carried on there ..’ [Exeter Flying Post 2 June 1796 p 2 col 3]. Situated by the Madford Water, a tributary of the Culm, and just downstream from Dunkeswell Abbey, it is very possible that there was originally a medieval tannery associated with the abbey here. Looking west-north-west

Martin Bodman