Wildlife at Haldon Gateway
Haldon Forest Park
Devon
England
Exeter is the nearest town or village.
OS Grid Reference: SX884849
The central point to start a visit to Haldon Forest Park, this car park with facilities is also home to many animals, some of which you will even be able to hear from your car. You can start the Play Trail from here and join the Butterfly Walk further on, a special area managed specifically for butterflies.
Mammals: Along the trails which lead from the car park you might be lucky enough to hear deer or even catch a glimpse of the rare black fallow deer as they cross a track in front of you. We have information about Roe deer and Fallow deer
Birds: In this part of the forest look out for treecreepers, crossbills, ravens, Dartford warblers and woodpeckers.
Insects and reptiles: A stroll along the Butterfly Walk will give you the chance of seeing some of the 30 species of butterfly, or later in the evening, some of the 277 species of moth which Haldon Forest is home to. We have information about Pearl-bordered fritillary and Silver-washed fritillary
How to get there:
Travelling by car turn off the A38 at Exeter Racecourse and follow the signs for Haldon Forest Park. The Haldon Gateway Car Park is signposted further along the road on the left.
Local Weather Forecast (Multimap)
Facilities:
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The Ridge Cafe is open 7 days a week, 8.30am-6pm April-September and 9am-5pm October-March. |
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The car park is open 8.30am-5pm daily. |
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Activities
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Butterfly Trail
Tree Trail |
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Adventure Cycle Trail |
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Use of the riding trails at Haldon Forest Park is now free of charge. |
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Permanent orienteering course. Maps available from the rangers' office. |
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The Centre for Contemporary Art and the Natural World |
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There is a sandy play area for young children near the cafe. The Play Trail also starts at the Gateway and features traditional and natural play features, and uses the 'Access for All' standard. |
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Other places to go in Haldon Forest ParkBird of Prey Viewpoint
Contact:
Haldon Forest Park
Ranger's Office
01392 834251
What's of interest
The Play Trail is a pleasant walk for everyone, leading you pleasantly through the forest along the picturesque Haldon Ridge.
What's on
What else is here
Useful sites
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