Woodland for sale

Located within the North Devon UNESCO Biosphere—an area celebrated for its rich natural and cultural heritage—Hearson Wood sits within a stunning and diverse landscape at the heart of South West England. The woodland offers an inviting retreat as well as an ideal base from which to explore the wider area.

This young, fast-establishing woodland is planted predominantly with larch (Larix decidua) and features a historic tree-lined hedge bank that adds character and ecological value.

A well-constructed stoned track ensures year-round access, while a network of internal paths allows you to explore the wood on foot or manage timber extraction with smaller vehicles or horses.

Hearson Wood presents an excellent opportunity for a buyer seeking to manage a productive woodland, with potential to increase biodiversity through future thinning of larch and the replanting of native broadleaved species.

Trees

The majestic Japanese larch tree has been planted to form a long term productive crop of timber. Larch trees are a deciduous conifer meaning that they shed their needles in winter leading to a vibrant autumnal colour when the needles turn orange and get ready to drop.

Larch is naturally resistant to rot thanks to it's creamy - brown sapwood which makes it an ideal timber for outdoor cladding, fence posts and decking.

Wildlife

A rich array of wildlife frequents this special area. Tawny owls hunt silently among the trees, slipping through the dusk and dawn light, while badgers forage and play as they search for their favoured earthworm treats. Foxes move comfortably through the woodland, and deer are often seen drifting between the trees.

The lower, southern reaches of Hearson Wood benefit from increased light and a more open canopy, creating ideal conditions for wildflowers to flourish.

Siskins—easily recognised by their bright yellow breasts and cheeks—are regular visitors, feeding on the plentiful seeds of the larch and bringing colour and movement to the woodland.

Features

An ancient boundary bank runs through the woodland, likely several centuries old. Mature beech and oak trees rise from this bank, forming an impressive line of towering specimens that adds historic character and structure to the landscape.

Access, tracks and footpaths

Access to the woodland is gained from a quiet country lane that leads directly to the entrance gate. Beyond this point, a well-constructed stoned forestry track continues through the site, guiding you to the parking area and the main entrance of Hearson Wood.

Within the woodland, a network of good-quality paths provides reliable access on foot and accommodates small-scale forestry operations, including the use of quad bikes, compact machinery, or even horses for timber extraction.

There are no public footpaths through the wood, ensuring privacy and a peaceful environment for woodland management and enjoyment.

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 wonderful day can be enjoyed within Hearson Wood. You might spend your time building shelters, practising green woodwork, or finishing the day by toasting marshmallows around a campfire before camping beneath the stars.

Alternatively, you can simply relax and immerse yourself in the tranquillity of the woodland, enjoying forest bathing or other mindfulness activities as you reconnect with peace and nature.

Local area and history

The woodland is situated just west of the village of Swimbridge. This former manor of Devon is located 4 miles south-east of Barnstaple. The name Hearson has been recorded in the nearby village of Swimbridge as Heringeston in 1249 and Hereston in 1250 and could be derived from the surname Herring and the Middle English ton ‘town, village, settlement’. A Walter Hering held land here in 1249.

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.

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