Three Other Woodland Sites

The final three sites surveyed by the Sidmouth Nature Project—Riverside Wood, Milltown Lane, and Harcombe Lane—offer a fascinating contrast to the hilltop plantations of the Sid Valley.

1. Riverside Wood: A Natural Lowland Exception

Unlike the majority of local woods situated on higher ground, Riverside Wood is located along the River Sid, specifically near Margaret's Meadow and Gilchrist Field in The Byes.

• A "True" Broadleaf Wood: It is considered one of the most interesting local sites because it is a more natural broadleaf woodland than others in the survey.

• Unique Composition: It is the only site among the twelve surveyed that appears to be almost free of introduced conifer plantation species like those found at Harpford or Bulverton Hill.

• Botanical Highlights: The wood supports a rich variety of flora, including Snowdrops, Winter Aconite, Wild Garlic (Ramsons), Wood Speedwell, and Bluebells.

• The Rare Find: A very small colony of Yellow Pimpernel (less than two square meters) has been recorded here.

2. The Tree-Lined Lanes: Milltown and Harcombe

Milltown Lane and Harcombe Lane are unique because they are not "woodlands" in the strict scientific sense of the Phase 1 analysis system. Instead, they are "lanes" lined with trees that act as historical markers.

Indicators of a Lost Landscape

The presence of Dog's Mercury (Mercurialis perennis) in these lanes is highly significant. While this is an ancient woodland indicator species, its presence here suggests where woodland once stood rather than describing the nature of the lanes today.

• Footpaths Through Time: These lanes were likely once footpaths through an expansive, ancient woodland that has since been cleared, leaving only these tree-lined remnants.

• Ancient Connections: While the lane itself is a remnant, the wider Harcombe area still contains actual Ancient Woodland and rare species like the Royal fern.

Comparison of the Final Sites

Feature Riverside Wood Milltown Lane Harcombe Lane

Classification Broadleaf Wood Tree-lined Path Tree-lined Road

Terrain Lower Ground/Riverside Steep/Rough/Stoney Historical Lane

Key Indicator Yellow Pimpernel Dog's Mercury Dog's Mercury

Note on Accessibility: Milltown Lane runs steeply uphill from Sid Road and becomes very rough terrain. It is extremely difficult to navigate for anyone with mobility issues.