Visit to “Rewilding at Sharpham” (S Devon Branch)

A visit to learn about the rewilding project on the Sharpham Estate overlooking the River Dart near Totnes and the many challenges that rewilding involves. Sixty acres are currently being ‘rewilded’.

The tour will be guided and will involve a two hour walk taken at gentle pace. We will split into two groups with no more than twelve in each group. There will be several stops on the way round to discuss the challenges of rewilding on previous agricultural land and plenty of opportunities to ask questions. Part of the walk will be through a field left to nature so expect some tall nettles and grasses as well as uneven ground as pigs, ponies and cattle are used as part of the  land management. Here we should be able to see or hear some of the wildlife that has returned. The total distance will be about two miles. 

Many people are already familiar with the beauty of Sharpham’s stunning riverside landscape and the walk includes both the well known viewpoint which looks up the Dart to Totnes and the reed beds next to the river.

Rewilding volunteers. Photo courtesy of AMBIOS

Practicalities:

There is parking and toilet facilities on site. There are no benches on the walk but plenty of stops. There are two moderately steep hills and uneven ground in the field which may not be visible through long vegetation. Please bring walking poles if you are not very confident on slopes particularly if it has been raining as it will be muddy. Also walking boots or sturdy shoes, long trousers and long sleeved shirts, drinking water if it is hot, sun hats or rainwear are essential and insect repellent may be sensible as we will be close to the river. We may also encounter the two pigs who are apparently very friendly.

The driveway to Lower Sharpham Barton Farm is a bit uneven so probably not suitable for low slung cars (no problems with a Toyota Yaris). Full directions will be sent in advance. There are benches in the reed beds suitable for picnics but bear in mind that July brings insects out. 

See this map of the estate  https://www.sharphamtrust.org/about-us/estate-map and see https://ambios.net/rewilding-at-sharpham for details of the project.

Numbers will be strictly limited. Cost £12 for DA members, £15 non-members, payable in advance.

Booking is now open via TicketSource – here.