Peak Ridge

The western skyline of Sidmouth is defined by Peak Hill, the seaward anchor of a ridge that stretches deep into the heart of East Devon. This ridge hosts a "cluster" of eleven interconnected sites of natural interest, collectively known for this project as the Peak Ridge ecological network.

Why These Sites Matter

These eleven locations were grouped based on three essential criteria for nature recovery:

• Proximity: They are closely joined, often sharing borders or separated only by a road.

• Protection: They are managed by conservation organisations, local authorities, or sympathetic landowners.

• Potential: They offer the opportunity for a unified nature recovery management plan.

While these sites sit within the immediate vicinity of Sidmouth, they are part of a much larger landscape. For instance, Muttersmoor serves as the most easterly gateway to the Pebblebed Heaths National Nature Reserve.

A Connected Landscape

The Peak Ridge network doesn't exist in isolation; it functions as a bridge to other vital habitats:

• Coastal Links: West Hill connects to the ‘Around the Town' network via Jacob’s Ladder and Connaught Gardens.

• Inland Borders: Greystone and Bulverton Hills join the Knapp and Knowle network at Bickwell and Highfield Meadow.

• The Horseshoe: At Core Hill Wood, the land arcs eastward to meet the Salcombe Hill network, forming a protected habitat "horseshoe" around Sidmouth.

Ecological Significance

The importance of this network is immense. Beyond its impressive scale, it preserves nationally scarce lowland heath habitat and supports numerous unique species. Situated on the Jurassic Coast World Heritage Site within an Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty, it is a crown jewel of East Devon’s natural heritage.

Site Connectivity Data

Site Name Primary Protection Adjoining Sites Connections

Greystone Clinton Devon Estates 3 5

Peak Wood National Trust 1 4

Muttersmoor Clinton Devon Estates 2 4

Peak Hill National Trust 1 3

Bulverton Hill Clinton Devon Estates 2 3

Delderfield East Devon District Council 1 3

Harpford Wood Clinton Devon Estates 1 3

Fire Beacon Hill Sidmouth Town Council 1 2

West Hill East Devon District Council 1 2

Core Hill Wood Woodland Trust 1 1

Harpford Trailway Open Access 1 1