Dendles Wood National Nature Reserve

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Overview

Dendles Wood NNR is an area of upland oak and beech woodland located in the narrow gorge of the River Yealm near Cornwood. The woodland is rich in ferns, mosses and lichens. The woodland is of particular scientific interest because it is a mixed oak-beech wood pasture that predates the large-scale planting of beech in Devon in the 16th century. The beeches of Dendles Wood are therefore assumed to be native, and at the edge of their natural range. The typical damp conditions of upland Atlantic oak woods encourage a rich community of lichens and mosses, and mid-April to mid-June is the best time to see the bluebells. Breeding birds in the woodlands include redstart, wood warbler and pied flycatcher. Seven species of bat have been found, including the nationally rare barbastelle bat which breeds here. There is a good population of the blue ground beetle: another rare species.

Location

Cornwood

About the area

Devon sums up all that is best about the British landscape, with its magnificent coastlines, two historic cities, the world-famous Dartmoor National Park and south Devon’s glorious English Riviera. A fashionable and much-loved holiday destination, hiking and cycling in the National Parks is extremely popular among visitors, with a great choice of off-road routes.