4/5)The Haldon ridge lies just south of Exeter and climbs to a height of 250m above sea level. Haldon Forest Park is a haven for birds of prey, and home to over 30 species of butterfly. 30 miles of trails are available for you to explore on bike, by foot, or on horseback.
The Discovery Trail is a multi-use, all-ability trail with traditional and natural play features, whilst the Sensory Trail at Mamhead has been specially designed to stimulate the senses of visitors of all abilities. The Discovery and Challenge cycle trails help you gain confidence in off-road cycling and there is a technical trail designed for the more experienced mountain bikers. If you are looking to develop new skills try the cycle Skills Area and Pump Track. Horse riders also have their own exclusive area with almost 10 miles of trails, including a quarter mile gallop stretch.
You will also find:
The Centre for Contemporary Art & the Natural World. Part gallery, part studio, with exhibitions and regular live events and activities. Call 01392 832277 or visit www.ccanw.co.uk for more information and opening times.
Forest Cycle Hire can be found in the Hub, near the Ranger's Office. Call 01392 833768 for bookings and information or visit www.forestcyclehire.co.uk.
Go Ape! highwire adventure course of rope bridges, tarzan swings and zip slides - all set high up in the treetops. Call 0845 643 9215 or visit www.goape.co.uk for booking and information.
The Ridge Cafe serves a range of locally sourced, organic fairtrade food and drink. Open 7 days a week, call 01392 833268 for opening times.
The Ridge Cafe is currently out to tender. Please see the main Haldon Forest Park Website for the most current information.
How to get there:
Exeter is the nearest town or village.
Travelling by car on the A38 turn off at the exit for Exeter Racecourse (there are no slip roads for this turning). Follow the signs for Haldon Forest Park. The Haldon Gateway car park is signposted further along the road on the left. For the Mamhead car park follow the signs for Mamhead and Starcross from the A380.
Please don't use our postcode in your Sat Nav! It will take you to the Forestry Commission Office and not the Haldon Forest Park visitor car park. Instead, carry on past the first gateway you see ('Office entrance only' is painted on the road there) and 200 metres on you will see the main entrance.
OS Grid Reference: SX884849
For details of public transport visit http://www.transportdirect.info
Start your visit from:
Mamhead Car ParkHaldon Gateway
Bird of Prey Viewpoint
Harcombe Horse Box Park
Haldon Christmas Tree Sales Centre
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