Peak Coppice

Wood, Forest in Dorset

England

Peak Coppice

The B3165 at Marshalsea Looking south west near Tanyard Farm. Here the B3165 provides the boundary between Thorncombe and Bettiscombe parishes — The B3165 at Marshalsea Credit: Martin Bodman

Peak Coppice is a well-preserved wood located in the county of Dorset, England. Covering an area of approximately 120 acres, it is known for its diverse flora and fauna, making it a popular destination for nature enthusiasts and hikers.

The wood is situated on a gentle slope, with the highest point reaching an elevation of around 150 meters. It is predominantly composed of broadleaf trees, including oak, beech, and birch, which provide a rich canopy and create a sense of tranquility within the forest. The woodland floor is adorned with an array of wildflowers, such as bluebells, primroses, and foxgloves, offering a vibrant and colorful display during the spring and summer months.

Peak Coppice is home to a variety of wildlife species, including deer, badgers, and foxes. Birdwatchers can also spot numerous avian inhabitants, including woodpeckers, owls, and various songbirds. The wood's diverse ecosystem is further enhanced by the presence of several small ponds, which attract an assortment of amphibians and insects.

There are several well-marked trails throughout Peak Coppice, allowing visitors to explore the wood at their own pace. These paths meander through the trees, offering glimpses of breathtaking views and providing opportunities for peaceful picnics or photography.

Managed by the local council, Peak Coppice is a designated Site of Special Scientific Interest (SSSI) due to its ecological significance. This status ensures that the wood is protected and conserved for future generations to enjoy.

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Peak Coppice Images

Images are sourced within 2km of 50.80194/-2.8884472 or Grid Reference ST3700. Thanks to Geograph Open Source API. All images are credited.

The B3165 at Marshalsea

Looking south west near Tanyard Farm. Here the B3165 provides the boundary between Thorncombe and Bettiscombe parishes

Martin Bodman

Blackwater valley

A view across a meadow and along the no through lane to Beerhall Farm. The stream ("river" is rather an exalted name) runs among the trees on the left.

Derek Harper

Easthay

Looking down towards the Blackwater valley from Easthay Lane. A couple of roofs of buildings at the farm of Easthay are visible across a field. The hill in the distance is Lambert's Castle Hill.

Derek Harper

Lane below Shearing Cross

The lane towards Thorncombe drops down from the little triangle of grass at Shearing Cross.

Derek Harper

Towards Northay

The fence runs at right angles away from Berry Lane, a narrow winding lane between Westhay and Marshwood, towards a small valley under the pylon line. Buildings at Northay can just be seen beyond the further field. Beyond that, the Blackwater River runs along the north edge of the square.

Derek Harper

Headwater valleys of the Blackwater

The view looks across the valleys of some half a dozen streams collecting to form the Blackwater River. Seen from a field crossed by Hawkchurch Footpath 5, here followed by the Liberty Trail and the Wessex Ridgeway path. In the background rises Payne's Down.

Derek Harper

Home Farm

The attractive flint and brick farmhouse at Home Farm, Sadborow, seen from the point at which Thorncombe footpath 93 leaves Sadborow Lane.

Derek Harper

Pond near Knacker's Hole

The upper of a pair of ponds on a sloping site beside Knacker's Hole Lane, followed by Thorncombe footpath 20. In the background, across into ST3901, is ST3901 : Thorncombe: Racedown, where Wordsworth started writing seriously.

Derek Harper

Partridge by the hedge

A red-legged partridge, Alectoris rufa, skulks by a hedge near the junction of Gashay Lane and Sadborow Lane. The Blackwater River flows (from left to right) just beyond the fencing, where a footbridge connects the fields.

Derek Harper

Gateway on Sadborow Lane

A break in the treelined and partly sunken lane gives this glimpse across a narrow field, just 40 metres across here, which runs down the hill beside the lane for 250 metres. Stinging nettles catch the evening sun.

Derek Harper

Field beside Sadborow Lane

The field drops towards Vembury Farm and the Blackwater valley, with Bitterstall Orchard on the left. In the distance is Lamberts Castle.

Derek Harper

Bullocks at Home Farm

Plenty of eager posers in a field next to Thorncombe footpath 93. An electric fence stops them coming nearer. Behind them, a single oak tree stands apart in the field.

Derek Harper