Woodland for sale

Bickle Wood is an established woodland. Predominantly mixed broadleaved trees, with an area of conifer at the northern edge of the woodland. Impressive ancient trees line old field banks and the fringes.

The woodland benefits from a south facing aspect.

As with most woodlands in Devon Bickle Wood is set on a hill. There are level areas at the south of the lower track which make ideal camping areas.

There is good access from a country lane and ample parking.

Bickle Wood is part of an area of woodland known as Hangmans Hill. Its prominent position sits between Codden Hill and Hearson Hill.

Bickle Wood takes its name from a local farmstead and a variation found at nearby Bickell Cross. Bickle is an Anglo Saxon personal name and the meaning is 'pickaxe' from the Anglo Saxon word 'Bicca' with the Old English word leigh, meaning wooded area.

Trees

The majority of Bickle Wood is broadleaved woodland planted around 25 years ago which has thrived to form a mixed canopy of trees including wild cherry, ash, sycamore, sweet chestnut, hazel and spindle.

At the upper, northern part of the woodland conifer woodland can be found with tree species such as douglas fir and larch. This provides a nice mix of habitats and types of timber for small scale forestry projects.

Wildlife

There are old badger setts within Bickle Wood with numerous tracks and snuffle holes. These small holes are where badgers dig for earthworms. Other woodland dwelling mammals such as red and roe deer often pass through.

At the south of the woodland a grassy clearing area that is sun soaked in the summer attracting numerous butterflies. Whilst in winter deer are often found here warming themselves.

Birds enjoy the peaceful local area with a variety of species frequenting the location such as siskins, long-tailed tits, great tits, buzzards and tawny owls.

Features

Running north to south within the central part of the woodland are the remnants of an old earth bank which is hundreds of years old. Upon this bank are a line of mature oak trees, a wonderful feature both for the owner and for local wildlife.

Access, tracks and footpaths

Access is from a quiet country lane with a good sized parking/ timber stacking area next to the main gate.

For those without a 4x4 we recommend using this area for parking which is close to the entrance of Bickle Wood.

For those with the use of a 4x4 there is a stoned track that leads to the lower areas of the woodland.

There are no public rights of way within Bickle Wood.

Rights and covenants

As is the case for all our woodlands, the purchaser will be asked to enter into a covenant which serves to protect the peace and quiet of the woodland.

Activities

A place to get away from the hustle and bustle of modern living, Bickle Wood is a perfect woodland to enjoy nature and the joys of woodland ownership such as family camping, picnics and small scale woodland management.

When using Bickle Wood for occasional overnight stays why not try hammocking as a wonderful way to experience sleeping within this natural environment.

An evening around a camp fire with the crackle of the fire, toasting chestnuts and a night under the stars is one of life's experiences that should not be missed.

Local area and history

The woodland is just west of the village of Swimbridge. This former manor of Devon is located 4 miles south-east of Barnstaple.

A short drive away is the historic Castle Hill Estate, owned by the Fortescue family since 1684. Here you can explore the gardens within the grade 1 listed parkland and enjoy tea and cake in the tea rooms.

This part of Devon is a fascinating place to explore the best of the north Devon coast with beautiful surfing beaches at Croyde and Woolacombe within easy reach.

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