Woodlands.co.uk

SOLD: Mercury Wood £39,000 Freehold

  • Brayford, Barnstaple, Devon
  • nearly three acres
  • Devon

Description

This part of Devon really is tucked away, though still accessible, it makes an ideal base for exploring the beauties of Exmoor and surrounding area.

Predominantly semi-mature conifer trees, this planted woodland has been partly cleared allowing the open glades to naturally re-establish with native trees such as willow, hazel and hawthorn.

At the east is an organic farm and to the west and south are further wooded areas.

The purchasers of the woodland will be asked to enter into a covenant

Trees

Moss covered Douglas fir trees dominate the slopes of Mercury Wood and the well spaced trees allow good internal access within this part of the woodland. There is scope to carry out a programme of thinning over the next few years should the new owner desire.

At the southern edges of the woodland previously cleared areas of conifer trees have allowed natural regeneration to begin with species such as birch, hazel and willow growing through brambles. This regeneration can be encouraged by clearance of some of the bramble areas. This will give scope for further enhancement with some small scale tree planting, known in this case as 'enrichment planting'. Planting new trees is one of the most rewarding pastimes and will give many years of satisfaction watching the trees you have planted mature.

Wildlife

Red and roe deer are frequently seen within and around Mercury Wood.

The woodland is a flora lovers delight with a vast array of plants including mosses and fungi.

Bird life is plentiful, this could be encouraged further with enrichment tree planting of species such as rowan, hazel, guelder rose and hawthorn, these have berries and nuts which are an excellent food source.

Features

Inclines at the north of the woodland have deer tracks ( known as racks ) that criss-cross the floor and provide routes within the trees. Following these paths up to the south of the woodland, you will find a plateau that is ideal as a space for mindfulness relaxation and forest meditation whilst soaking in the elevated postion overlooking Exmoor. A great camping spot could be made here.

The eastern and southern boundaries have a traditional tree lined hedge bank which has a stone faced wall at the base in places.

Access, tracks and footpaths

From the highway the main woodland gate is accessed along a metalled no through road. Once within the main gate there is a parking area immediately on the left. There is a forestry track that runs along the western boundary.

There are no public footpaths within Mercury Wood.

Rights and covenants

Sporting rights are included in the sale.

Activities

Small scale woodland management such as thinning, coppicing and tree planting on this level can be carried out with family and friends. A hot meal prepared over a log fire when having a break from woodland activities is a pleasure that has to be experienced.

The gradient of some of the woodland is perfect for a zip wire for the more adventurous members of the family, or simply enjoy nature and the views from the plateau area at the south of the woodland.

Situated next to a stream just passed the main entrance is an area of land next to a beautiful stream. This area is for the use of Mercury Wood and one other neighbouring woodland owner. An ideal place to picnic.

The prominant position of the upper slopes allows viewing of the night sky, perhaps to spot the elusice planet Mercury, best seen at twilight.

Local area and history

Mercury Wood overlooks the picturesque landscape of Exmoor National Park, with its varied habitat of moorland, woodland and rolling hills. Many activities can be enjoyed on Exmoor from walking, cycling and wildlife watching.

The north Devon coast is within easy reach with popular places such as Lynton, Ilfracombe and the surfing beach of Woolacombe all within a 30 minute drive.

Particulars and plans were prepared by our local manager, Stuart Brooking

Wood maps

This wood is now sold, please do not visit the wood without the permission of the owner.

Find this wood

This wood is now sold, please do not visit the wood without the permission of the owner.

Location

  • OS Landranger: OS No. 180
  • Grid ref: SS 706 373
  • Nearest post code: EX32 7QW
  • GPS coordinates: 51.1204, -3.84936

Location map

Directions

Directions

- From the M5, leave at Junction 27 onto the A361 towards Tiverton.

- Stay on the A361 for around 30 miles until you reach the North Aller roundabout where you take the 3rd exit onto the A399 towards Ilfracombe, Bratton Fleming and Brayford.

- After about 5 miles carefully take the right hand turn into the village of Brayford.

- Drive down the hill and over a bridge that straddles the River Bray.

- Take the next left hand turn at Lydcott Cross.

- Follow this road up a hill, around to the left and on past Cross Gate Cross, signposted towards Challacombe.

- After half a mile turn right onto a no-through road - this is known as Muxworthy Lane.

- Follow the narrow tarmac road down the hill and over Skentaway Bridge and you will see the entrance to the woodland on the right. There is space to park on the right hand side of the road just before Skentaway Bridge (please leave space for vehicles to turn).

- Climb carefully over the gate and you will see a parking area in front of you which Mercury Wood can use.

- To find the entrance to Mercury Wood take the stoned track immediately on your left (there is a right to use this for Mercury Wood) and walk up the track for around 100 metres until you see the 'Mercury Wood' name sign on your left. You can enter the woodland here.

- Satnav/GPS note: the postcode EX32 7QW is for the point shown by the red dot on the location plan 2.

How we support our buyers

Membership of the small woodland owners’ group

£300 for a woodland course of your choice

One year's free membership of the royal forestry society

Please note this wood is owned by woodlands.co.uk.

Our regional managers are often out working in our woodlands, so if you email an offer and want to be sure it has been received, please phone our manager on their mobile phone. The first offer at the stated price which is accepted, whether by phone or email, has priority.

Please take care when viewing as the great outdoors can contain unexpected hazards and woodlands are no exception. You should exercise common sense and caution, such as wearing appropriate footwear and avoiding visiting during high winds.

These particulars are for guidance only and, though believed to be correct, do not form part of any contract. Woodland Investment Management Ltd hereby give notice under section 21 of the Estate Agents Act 1979 of their interest in the land being sold.

Set on the slopes of a wooded valley within Exmoor National Park, this manageable sized woodland is in a very peaceful location with the additional use of land next to a picturesque stream.

Managed by Stuart Brooking

Telephone: 07801 789215

Email: [email protected]