Exploring the Blackdown Hills, Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty (AONB)
The Blackdown Hills AONB, sits on the Devon and Somerset border and is a truly breath-taking part of the UK. Just a stone’s throw from our new homes in Hemyock, the landscape is full of dramatic valleys and lush forests, interspersed with rivers and streams.
There is plenty to see and do, from visiting historical monuments dating back to the Iron Age, to exploring on foot, bike or even by horse! Here’s what you will see when you set out to explore the Blackdown Hills…
History Through the Ages
If heritage is your thing, immerse yourself in the buildings of archaeological and historic interest, as well as the impressive hillforts which date back to the Iron Age.
Climbing Dumpdon Hill rewards walkers with stunning views across the Otter Valley and whilst at the top, you may spot long-horn cattle grazing on the hillside. Although their horns might appear intimidating the cattle aren’t aggressive, in fact they play an important role in managing the biodiversity of the land. If you’ve got a four-legged friend with you, it’s important you keep them on the lead when near the cattle though!
Hembury Fort, near Honiton is a scheduled monument (the oldest form of heritage protection) and survives in fantastic condition. The site shows evidence of settlements dating back to the Neolithic period and was even used as a base for the Roman Army in the 1st century AD.
Castle Neroche has woodland tracks to explore as a family and is the perfect place to stop and enjoy a picnic. Legend has it that there is an ancient treasure chest buried under the hillfort where a Norman Castle once stood, but it is protected by an ancient dragon – so keep your eyes peeled!
Wildlife
Thanks to the varied landscape of the Blackdown Hills, you will find a wide variety of flora and fauna and whilst exploring the area, you may be lucky enough to spot one of the UK’s most elusive mammals – the Hazel Dormouse.
The River Otter rises in the Blackdown Hills, just inside the county of Somerset and flows south through East Devon. The river was the site of the River Otter Beaver Trial which saw these fascinating creatures reintroduced into the wild to monitor the impacts they have on the British countryside. The trial concluded in 2020 and found that they can bring measurable benefits to people and wildlife and therefore the Government announced Devon’s beavers can stay. So be sure to keep a look out for a mother and her kits on your travels!
Walking and Cycling
Exploring the Blackdown Hills on foot provides the opportunity to take in the beautiful surroundings at your own pace. There are a number of flatter routes to follow which take you through farmland and woodland, or you can challenge yourself to scale some of the naturally rugged terrain! Take a look at All Trails for some of the best walks, which can be sorted by difficulty.
The cycling routes around the Blackdown Hills are picturesque and mainly on quiet country roads, however many of the routes are particularly challenging, so seek out a route for yourself here first.
Food and Drink
The Blackdown Hills offers up bountiful produce which is used in the dishes of local pubs and restaurants. If you’re a real foodie, you might like to try:
- The Half Moon Inn at Clayhidon
Their records show they first had their licence granted back in 1787.
The chef employs a ‘nose to tail’ philosophy when it comes to food, making sure nothing goes to waste.
Located in the heart of Hemyock only a stone’s throw from our new homes at Oak Mount.
Oak Mount, Hemyock
If you’re on the hunt of a new home in this beautiful corner of the country, we have a variety of 3 and 4-bedroom energy-efficient new-build homes for sale at Oak Mount in the idyllic village of Hemyock.
Book an appointment to visit our Show Home and Marketing Suite by calling 01823 210837 or by emailing [email protected].
