Discover Dartmoor’s Rainforests
Dartmoor is blessed with a range of fabulous habitats, of which its temperate rainforests are the most biodiverse and perhaps the most magical: we enter a world of trees clothed in green moss, ferns creeping along their branches, and lichens adorning their twiggy tips, home to a host of rare plants and animals.
Geri loves to lead small group events involves exploring, appreciating and learning about Dartmoor’s temperate rainforests. Here are some examples, each showcasing a particular aspect of our rainforests, giving the opportunity to learn in a little more depth – just enough to enhance not detract from the pleasure of visiting these wonderful woodlands.
“The walk was affordable and fascinating which made it very good value as I learned a great deal…I am recommending your guided walks to my friends, I'm still talking about it!”
Days out in the rainforest
Okehampton
Introduction to Temperate Rainforest
We look at the overall composition of rainforest: the trees that give it structure and the plants that make up the ground layer. By the end of the day you will be confident identifying the commonest trees and other plants, and have a good understanding of the elements that make up a healthy rainforest. Our route takes us beside the beautiful, tumbling West Okement river to a rainforest Site of Special Scientific Interest.
Start point:
Okehampton Station, Station Road, Okehampton EX20 1EJ.
Grid reference SX593944
The Bovey Valley
Focus on lichens
We drop down into the wooded valley and remain in the woodlands for most of the day, crossing the river at Foxworthy and back over it at the old clam bridge (there’s a new bridge beside it for the less brave).
Our focus will be to an extent on lichens: extraordinary composite organisms with a vital role in colonising and nutrient cycling. The range of growth forms is astonishing, from the showy beard lichens like String-of Sausages to the flat crusts which, when viewed through a hand lens, reveal fruiting bodies like barnacles, jam tarts and writing.
Start point:
Manaton car park, TQ13 9UL.
Grid reference SX750812
Shaugh Bridge
Focus on mosses
We walk beside the lovely River Meavy before climbing up through the woods to Dewerstone Rock and a moorland stretch with fine views to drop down to Cadover Bridge, returning to Shaugh along the wooded bank of the Plym.
The woodland sections abound in luxuriant mats of rainforest mosses and their cousins, the liverworts. These plants are descended from the very first to venture out of the sea, colonising the land and creating the oxygen that allowed animals to follow. You will learn a little more about the importance of these easily overlooked plants, and start to pick out a few common species.
Start point:
Shaugh Bridge bus stop, PL7 5HD.
Grid reference SX534636
Upland oakwood
Black-a-Tor Copse
Black-a-Tor Copse is one of three upland woodlands on Dartmoor, the most famous of which is Wistman’s Wood. Black-a-Tor Copse is more remote and hence less damaged by a high number of visitors. We will nonetheless pick a careful route to avoid harming this fragile environment, home to rare plants and upland birds; it even has a lichen found nowhere else in Britain.
We will ponder why its stunted oak trees are the ‘wrong species’ and whether this is indeed a remnant of the original wildwood that covered Britain at the end of the last Ice Age.
Start point:
Meldon Reservoir car park EX20 4LU.
Grid reference SX562917
Dart Valley
Focus on filmy ferns
This is a very pretty route and a little shorter and easier than the rest in this series, though it does have a section of very stony path which we will take slowly. It dips down into the Dart Valley, before following a fairly level path through the trees.
We get a chance to see an uncommon rainforest plant on this walk: the exquisite filmy fern. Its fronds are only an inch long and translucent; if you haven’t seen them before (and even if you have!), you are in for a treat.
Start point:
Venford Reservoir, TQ13 7SS. Car park on the Holne side of the dam. (There is another car park, with toilets, on the other side of the dam.)
Grid reference SX688709
“A fascinating and eye-opening walk.”
Information
Distance & terrain
All events involve paths that are stony, muddy and slippery in places. We will not be rushing so you will be able to take your time on trickier stretches. The walks are 4-5 miles long.
Timing
Days normally run from 10am to 4pm, but any start and end times can be agreed to suit you.
If coming from Exeter, consider taking the 09.34 train to Okehampton; you will be back at the station in good time for the 16.15 back to Exeter. Of if coming from Plymouth, the 08.10 bus will get you to Shaugh Bridge at 09.21, returning on the 15.53.
Under 18’s
Under 18’s are welcome but must be accompanied by their parent or legal guardian.
What to bring and wear
Come prepared for all weathers, with waterproofs, warm layers, sunhat and well-treaded footwear – preferably walking boots. Bring a packed lunch, drinks and, if you own them, binoculars. Hand lenses will be available to borrow but, if you have one, please bring it along.
Dogs
Welcome on a lead
