Holyford Woods Local Nature Reserve — Attraction in East Devon

Be aware that there is no parking for the nature reserve - Google Maps will just take you to a random point on the road, so you have to park up by the garage. You then walk across the road, through a gate; and then down through a farmer’s field to get to the entrance. This might make accessibility difficult for some - when we went the field was extremely muddy, and it wasn’t great crossing the busy road with a dog. Having said that, the reserve was pleasant and the trails easy to follow - although they are not proper paths and also get very muddy after rain. I’m sure will be beautiful when the bluebells come out and on a nicer, drier...

Beautiful peaceful woods near Colyford. We reached the woods by walking up narrow lanes from Colyford, so not sure if there are any places to park up and walk from another side. Some steep parts in the woods if you choose those paths. Pathways seem well tended and cleared. Good sign posts. Beautiful streams. When we visited late on a Sunday afternoon in August we saw no one else! Photos attached are of views from the woods and towards the woods. No picnic tables or toilet facilities, but plenty of places to sit and have a picnic. Great views across Devon...

Very poorly marked, had to ask a couple of people at the petrol station how to get there, got 2 different answers. eventually found the gate. Had to walk through a field with lots of cows with a very nervous dog and young child. My dog was terrified as the cows were coming closer to take interest.Once in the woods they were beautiful and the bluebells magnificent. Would like to go again, but not sure about going through the field with cows. It would be good if the farmer could put a wire down one side to make a path that is safe for humans...