Halsdon. Photo, Kevin New
IMPORTANT NOTICE
Access to this Devon Wildlife Trust managed nature reserve/site
We recognise access to nature is hugely important to wellbeing, but at this difficult time, we need to have the health of our staff and the community at the forefront of our mind - including neighbours to our nature reserves. Nature reserve car parks are therefore temporarily closed, and we are asking people not to drive/travel to our sites. For those who live locally and may be accessing sites for the purposes of their daily exercise, we ask that everyone observe government restrictions on outdoor access and ensure guidelines on social distancing are always followed.
Please be aware that key staff will be accessing this site for regular livestock and health and safety checks.
Advice and rules on public access may change. Please keep up to date on the status of access to this site and also to benefit from lots of great information about our work, about wildlife and about how you can take action for Devon’s stunning natural environment, by visiting www.devonwildlifetrust.org and by following us on Twitter, Facebook or Instagram
Our work for local wildlife continues and remains as important as ever. To find out more about ways in which you can help and enjoy wildlife at home join our FREE e-news and to support our work visit www.devonwildlifetrust.org/support-us
Location
OS Map Reference
SS 553 131
Know before you go
Entry fee
NoParking information
Two small car parks at its Ashwell and Quarry entrances.Grazing animals
YesWalking trails
Paths explore the reserve's riverside meadows and woodland. Allow 1.5 hours to explore.
Access
1km level track leads to the river. Most of the woodland paths are steep in parts and unsurfaced.
Dogs
Facilities
When to visit
Opening times
Open at all timesBest time to visit
All year roundAbout the reserve
This is many people’s favourite Devon Wildlife Trust nature reserve and it’s easy to see why!
Habitat
Contact us
Environmental designation
Location map
How to get to Halsdon
Take our video tour here
Watch this short film guide to Halsdon in the company of wildlife expert and TV presenter Mike Dilger.
Otter. Photo, Matt Whorlow
Wander through trees to the river
Trails weave down through woodland leading you to the banks and water meadows of the River Torridge. Along the way the sounds of birdsong give way to the rush of the river.
In summer the Torridge is the place to see sand martins and kingfishers. In winter look for ducks including goosanders as they dive beneath the water’s surface to catch fish. All year round you have a chance of seeing otters – a riverside wildlife hide is the place to go and try your luck.
In autumn and winter search for fungi on the woodland floor and the branches of trees. Above your head listen for the calls of long-tailed tits and tawny owls, while great spotted woodpeckers hammer out their territorial signals.
Halsdon. Photo, Kevin New
Explore on foot
Halsdon has lots of paths for you to discover. You can use Halsdon as a base from which to explore this fascinating part of Devon. Use our Halsdon Wild Walk as your guide.
Halsdon nature reserve leaflet
Become a member and support our work
The vital work we do for nature depends on the support of people who care about the future of Devon’s wildlife and wild places.