February is here already which means that it will be spring in no time! If you want to see the seasons change while exploring Honiton and the wider East Devon area, here are some suggestions to help you spy the first inklings of spring, the changing plantlife and even the new birds, lambs and rabbits across the region!
First up on our list is Honiton Bottom Community Nature Reserve – located about a mile from the town centre, Honiton Bottom is home to a variety of small birds and if you’re lucky, you might even spot an owl or two! There are several paths through the reserve, though they can get muddy in bad weather, so be sure to wear sensible shoes.
The meadow area is a great place to visit for seeing how the landscape changes with the incoming season. Honiton Bottom is also a great picnic spot if it’s warm enough – there are benches available or bring a blanket! Just make sure to take all your litter with you!
Next, a place that has great historical significance locally as well as being a great spot for enjoying the fresh air: Blackbury Camp. Found on the outskirts of the town and managed by English Heritage, this was once the site of an Iron Age hill fort and though you can’t quite see the structure any more, there is plenty of evidence of the tribes that lived in the area. Blackbury Camp is a great place to visit once spring takes hold – the entire area is covered in a blanket of spring flowers but even if you go a little too early or late, there is still plenty of picturesque spots to enjoy, and there is free parking next door.
Another option closer to the town is Roundball Wood, which can be found on Roundball Hill and offers incredible views over the town and the Otter Valley. As an area of woodland, it can be dark and slippery when the weather turns, so make sure to wear sturdy shoes and to watch your step while exploring. As the seasons start to change, you’ll see lots of lovely spring flowers and there are a host of birds and plants to spot while exploring. There is a clearly marked path through the wood which is the recommended route to help preserve the wildlife nad natural habitats, so follow the signs and enjoy a day out in the woods.
Honiton is blessed with being on the edge of the Blackdown Hills. A National Landscape (formerly known as an AONB), the Blackdown Hills is a haven for anyone who wants to enjoy the natural world and enjoy a gentle stroll or two. There are a host of paths and routes available to follow on their website, which will either take you around Honiton and the surrounding Devon area or further into Somerset if you fancy a challenging walk.
If you’re exploring the wider area, head towards the town of Sidmouth where you’ll be able to discover the beauty of Knapp Copse local nature reserve, The Byes and other pretty coastal and rural walks. Otherwise, in Budleigh Salterton there is the Otter Estuary Nature Reserve or in Seaton, you can explore the wetlands.
Find more nature and walks here.
