Woodlands of Peak Hill

The western flank of the Sid Valley features three distinct woodland areas: Bulverton Hill, Greystone and Lydes Hill, and Peak Wood. While many of these are managed for timber, they also serve as vital ecological corridors.

1. Bulverton Hill: The Working Plantation

Bulverton Hill is a high-altitude site offering panoramic views of the valley and sea. It is owned by Clinton Devon Estates and managed primarily for commercial timber.

• Composition: Primarily an extensive commercial plantation of Douglas Fir.

• The Heathland Connection: Historically, this area was heathland before being converted to forestry.

• Ecological Insight: While dense conifers can suppress native wildlife, the presence of Bluebells indicates pockets where natural woodland flora still survives.

2. Greystone and Lydes Hill: The Ecological Corridor

Adjacent to Muttersmoor, these hills act as a transition zone between the heath and the commercial forest.

• The Bridleway Corridor: A wide bridleway runs the length of the hill. This open space is crucial; it acts as a "natural gap" through the dense conifers, allowing heath grasses, lichens, mosses, and invertebrates to flourish.

• A Botanical Rarity: A very small colony (less than 2 m^2) of Yellow Pimpernel (Lysimachia nemorum) has been recorded here. While too small to officially classify the wood as an NVC W7 community, it remains a site of high interest.

3. Peak Wood: The "Open" Garden Wood

Managed by the National Trust, Peak Wood is located on the western edge of Sidmouth. It has a softer, more "open" character compared to the heavy plantations nearby.

• Woodland Dominance: The survey recorded 101 plant species, with a 69.3% dominance of woodland-specific species—placing it just below the "ancient" 70% threshold.

• Garden History: The presence of a boundary bank and tree-lined border suggests this may have once been part of an enclosed garden or managed pasture where grazing animals were excluded.

• Flora: In April, the wood is filled with Greater Stitchwort (Stellaria holostea).

Site Summary Table

Feature Bulverton Hill Greystone & Lydes Peak Wood

Management Tilhill Forestry Clinton estates National Trust

Key Species Douglas Fir Lichens, Heath grass Various flora

Geology Upper Greensand Upper Greensand Upper Greensand

Best For... Valley & Sea views Invertebrate spotting Level, scenic walks