Eggesford Forest

Visitor information

Discover the historic importance of Eggesford Forest

Eggesford Forest is home to the very first trees planted by the newly created Forestry Commission in 1919 within Flashdown Plantation.

Since then, the forest has continued to gather mementos of the past with several commemorative tree avenues, and a granite stone unveiled by Her Majesty Queen Elizabeth II in 1956 to mark the millionth acre of Forestry Commission planting.

At a glance

  • Walking trails
  • Dogs welcome
  • Picnic area

Things to do

Enjoy a tasty treat at one of Eggesford Forest's picnic tables (found in the car park at Hilltown Wood). Just bring along good food and company!

Eggesford Forest comprises three main woodland blocks with a variety of walking.

Heywood offers a variety of forest roads and tracks. You will pass a motte and bailey castle, remnant of a Norman fort that is now a scheduled monument. Head down the slopes towards the stream to encounter some of Eggesford's most impressive trees, including a veteran Douglas Fir planted in around 1840.

Hilltown has a medium car park with access to meandering rides and tracks. This is where you can find the Queen's Stone celebrating the millionth acre planted by the Forestry Commission.

Flashdown Plantation has limited parking. This is where you can find the very first Forestry Commission planting and other commemorative avenues planted between 1919 and 2019.

Nearby forests

Hamsterley Grove Beck riverside

These beautiful woods with stunning walks have paths for all, just a few minutes from Okehampton.

You can walk the Tarka Trail and follow the River Okement, or just wind your way through the woodland.

Sunlight shining through woodland scenery

Walk Northcombe's circular forest road loop, starting from the parking area. The wide tracks with gentle gradients make for easy going walks or rides, with amazing views and lots to explore.

Reservoir surrounded by forest

Fernworthy's position at the edge of Fernworthy Reservoir provides extensive opportunities for walking, nature spotting, and enjoying the peace of Dartmoor.

See if you can find one of the many prehistoric sites in the area including the Fernworthy Cairn Circle and Fernworthy Assycombe Stone Row.

Shaded walking trail in Stoke Woods, Exeter

Located north of Exeter, Stoke Woods is a great place to get in touch with nature. Stoke Woods is a Site of Special Scientific Interest (SSSI) and has large areas of ancient woodland, making it a very special wildlife haven at the edge of the city.

Stretch your legs on our wild trails and visit some of the oldest and largest trees in Exeter.

 

Membership invitation - click to find out more about membership
Volunteer with us invitation - click to discover volunteer opportunities across England