Recovery Status

Nearly all of Sidmouth’s primary grassland sites have been influenced by human activity, classified as either improved or semi-improved. Today, most are protected and are either being actively restored or allowed to recover naturally. Based on observation, these sites fall into four distinct groups.

Group 1: The Stable Strongholds

These are the "jewels" of the Sid Valley. Nature has largely recovered from previous human intervention, and these sites are rich in both plants and invertebrates. Because some were never extensively farmed, they have remained stable for many years.

• Key Sites: Peak Hill, Lincombe, East Cliff, Farway, and the Community Orchard.

• Management: Current efforts focus on maintaining their high quality, such as the ongoing sheep grazing at Peak Hill.

Group 2: The Recovered Meadows

These sites were once used for livestock grazing, which had a milder impact on the habitat than crop cultivation. Most grazing has now ceased, and they are managed like traditional hay meadows—cut late in the season with the vegetation removed.

• Key Sites: The Knapp, Sid Meadow, Delderfield, Peasland Knapp, and Soldier's Hill.

• What to See: In high summer, these sites boast a dense, vibrant array of flowers supporting large invertebrate populations.

Group 3: The Recovering Landscapes

These sites have experienced more recent "improvement" or disturbance. Active restoration is underway here, through either natural regeneration or the sowing of wildflower seeds.

• Key Sites: Alma Field, Combe Wood Farm, Gilchrist Field, Margaret’s Meadow, and The Knowle.

• Progress: Their agricultural heritage is becoming less visible as strong wild herbal communities begin to re-establish.

Group 4: Maintained Mosaics

These sites are managed for general nature conservation rather than just grassland improvement. They often feature a mix of different habitats.

• Key Sites: The Donkey Sanctuary, Salcombe Hill, West Hill, and South Combe Farm.

• Management: At Salcombe Hill, for example, the goal is to maintain a "mosaic" of both dense scrub and open grassland.

Looking Ahead

The recovery of Sidmouth’s grasslands is an ongoing story. Sites like The Knowle and Combe Wood Farm are currently undergoing rewilding, and it will be up to future generations of naturalists to see how these profiles change over time. By understanding and protecting these stages of recovery, we ensure that the "rough meadows" of the Sid Valley continue to thrive.