Woodland for sale

Russell Wood sits in one of North Devon’s most picturesque landscapes, nestled gently along the edge of a lush river valley. Surrounded by rolling fields, mature trees, and peaceful wooded slopes, the woodland offers sweeping views across the River Mole and provides a tranquil retreat for nature lovers.

According to the Government’s ‘Magic’ habitat database, Russell Wood is classified as Ancient Replanted Woodland. This designation means that, while the original native trees were felled and later replanted—often with conifers—the land itself has supported woodland for many centuries. Such long-established woodland soils create ideal conditions for rich ground flora, including ferns and other specialist plants.

Whether you’re seeking a quiet place to connect with nature, or simply admiring the views, Russell Wood offers a timeless and peaceful slice of North Devon’s natural heritage.

Trees

Russell Wood is defined by its remarkable diversity of tree species and rich natural character. Ancient hedge banks lined with knarled beech and ash give way to inviting groves of hazel, all framed by a tapestry of mixed broadleaved woodland. Along the upper side of the private internal track stands a beautifully spaced plantation of conifers—predominantly Douglas fir, a highly durable timber prized for cladding, decking, and structural beams in homes and barns.

To the east, a generous natural clearing offers an ever-changing scene of young, regenerating trees such as hazel. With some gentle management—clearing back a few brambles and planting native broadleaves—this area provides a perfect opportunity for hands-on woodland stewardship, ideal for enjoyable days spent outdoors with family and friends.

Wildlife

Russell Wood offers a rich mosaic of habitats, with pockets of broadleaved trees creating shelter, food, and movement corridors for an abundance of wildlife. The woodland is alive with birds—from tiny goldcrests flitting among the conifers to woodcocks springing up from the undergrowth, giving a sudden glimpse of their distinctive long beaks as they take flight.

The woodland is also frequented by both red and roe deer, often seen browsing quietly or moving gracefully between the trees. Nearby the River Mole supports otters, and surrounding woodlands host protected dormice, illustrating the wider ecological value of the area.

Thanks to previous thinning, sunlight now reaches the woodland floor, encouraging a rich ground flora. In spring, carpets of bluebells and clusters of primroses bring vibrant colour, while varied mosses and lichens thrive in the dappled light—further testament to the woodland’s health and diversity.

Features

Practical access is a key advantage of Russell Wood. A dedicated parking area sits close to the entrance, and a well-constructed forestry track allows a suitable 4x4 to drive right through the heart of the woodland. This track also provides excellent access for future woodland management, including the selective thinning of spruce and fir.

At the far end of the track, a spacious clearing opens up to reveal sweeping views across the valley—an inviting spot for peaceful camps, picnics, or simply taking in the landscape. A second level clearing nearby offers an ideal location for a small forestry store, firewood processing area, or timber stacking, providing real versatility for both recreation and practical woodland work.

Access, tracks and footpaths

Access to Russell Wood is straightforward and practical. A stoned forestry track leads directly from the public highway into the woodland. While the track undulates, it remains suitable for 4x4 vehicles throughout the year, with standard cars able to use it comfortably during the drier months.

A generous parking area sits at the main entrance, supplemented by two additional shared parking spots along the central track, ensuring ample space for visitors, equipment, or woodland tasks.

With no public footpaths running through the property, Russell Wood offers exceptional privacy—ideal for those seeking a peaceful retreat, uninterrupted forestry work, or quiet enjoyment of nature.

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

Enjoy a variety of woodland activities with Russell Wood - from wildlife watching and photography to green woodworking with the large open clearing. The purchaser could set up a hide for wildlife watching in one of the clearings.

A forestry store could be sited, perhaps using a local mobile sawmill contractor to plank up some of the valuable mature conifer trees found within the woodland.

Local area and history

Russell Wood enjoys an excellent location, with a wide range of local services and easy access to both mid-Devon and the spectacular north Devon coast. King’s Nympton train station lies just a few miles away, offering convenient travel along the renowned Tarka Line—celebrated as one of the most beautiful rail routes in the country—with direct links to Exeter.

The name Russell Wood is in recognition of the Reverend John 'Jack' Russell who first bred the Jack Russell dog back in the early nineteenth century. Jack Russell resided in Swimbridge further north of Chawleigh but married Penelope Incledon-Bury who was the third daughter and co-heiress of Vice-Admiral Richard Incledon-Bury (1757-1825) who was lord of the manor of Colleton at nearby Chulmleigh.

The woodland sits approximately eight miles south of Barnstaple, the gateway to some of north Devon’s most striking coastal scenery. From here, you can explore a stretch of rugged coastline and a host of stunning beaches, including Westward Ho! and the renowned surfing destinations of Croyde and Woolacombe.