When we think of rainforests, our minds often drift to the lush, tropical jungles of the Amazon or the Congo. However, rainforests can also thrive in cooler climates, and North Devon is home to some of the most enchanting temperate rainforests in the UK. These unique ecosystems, also known as Atlantic woodlands or Celtic rainforests, are rich in biodiversity and play a crucial role in carbon storage and climate regulation.

What Makes Temperate Rainforests Special?

Temperate rainforests are characterized by their high humidity, regular rainfall, and mild temperatures, which create the perfect conditions for a diverse array of plant and animal life. Unlike tropical rainforests, temperate rainforests are found in regions influenced by the sea, where the climate remains relatively stable throughout the year. This stability allows moisture-loving plants such as ferns, mosses, liverworts, and lichens to thrive, covering every surface from the forest floor to the tree trunks and branches.

The trees in North Devon’s temperate rainforests include sessile oak, birch, rowan, holly, alder, willow, and hazel. These woodlands often feature open glades and rivers cutting through rocky gorges, creating a picturesque landscape that is both serene and vibrant. The rich tapestry of life in these forests is not only visually stunning but also ecologically significant, as these habitats support a variety of rare and endemic species.

The Importance of Conservation

Historically, temperate rainforests covered large areas of the British Isles, including parts of Wales, Northern Ireland, western Scotland, and northwest and southwest England. However, centuries of logging, farming, and development have drastically reduced these forests to isolated fragments. Today, conservation efforts are crucial to protect and restore these precious ecosystems.

In North Devon, the National Trust has launched an ambitious program to re-establish temperate rainforests by planting 100,000 trees across three sites: Arlington Court, Exmoor, and Woolacombe/Hartland. This initiative aims to create 50 hectares (123 acres) of temperate rainforest, providing a sanctuary for wildlife and helping to combat climate change by sequestering carbon.

A Haven for Biodiversity

The temperate rainforests of North Devon are home to a remarkable array of plant and animal species. The damp conditions are ideal for fungi, lichens, mosses, and other plants that cloak the trees, rocks, and boulders. Some of these species are globally rare, such as the hazel gloves fungus, which grows only on old hazel trees and resembles a bundle of rubbery orange fingers1.

Birds, mammals, and insects also find refuge in these woodlands. The diverse plant life provides ample food and shelter, supporting a complex web of interactions that sustain the forest’s health and vitality. Conservation efforts not only protect these species but also ensure the continued ecological functions of the rainforest, such as water regulation and soil formation.

The Future of North Devon’s Rainforests

The restoration of temperate rainforests in North Devon is a testament to the importance of preserving natural habitats for future generations. As these forests grow and mature, they will continue to provide essential services to the environment and offer a haven for wildlife. The National Trust’s reforestation efforts are a crucial step towards expanding these habitats and ensuring their resilience in the face of climate change

Visiting North Devon’s temperate rainforests is a unique experience that allows us to connect with nature and appreciate the beauty and complexity of these ecosystems. Whether you’re exploring the moss-covered trees, listening to the sounds of the forest, or simply enjoying the tranquility, these rainforests offer a glimpse into a world where nature thrives in harmony.

Where to see Devon’s temperate rainforests:

Heddon Valley:

Heddon Valley, managed by the National Trust, is a picturesque area with temperate rainforest along the river valley. It’s a great spot for hiking and nature walks.

• Car Park: There is a National Trust car park at Heddon Valley.
• Facilities: The site includes a visitor center, toilets, and a tea-room. There are also picnic areas and guided walks available.

Lynton and Lynmouth to Watersmeet:

The twin villages of Lynton and Lynmouth are gateways to the temperate rainforests of the East Lyn Valley. The area offers dramatic landscapes and rich biodiversity. Watersmeet is a National Trust property featuring a stunning river gorge and temperate rainforest. It’s a popular spot for hiking and wildlife watching. The walk from Lynmouth to Watersmeet is beautiful, and a great way to experience the Devon rainforest.

• Car Park: Car parks are available in both Lynton and Lynmouth, and there is a National Trust carpark at Watersmeet.
• Facilities: Visitor centers, toilets, cafes, and picnic areas are available. The area also offers boat trips and cliff railway rides. Watersmeet also boasts a tea room and toilets

Horner Wood:

Horner Wood near Porlock is part of Exmoor National Park and is known for its rich biodiversity, including rare lichens and mosses. The moist atmosphere and unique ecological conditions make perfect rainforest conditions.

• Car Park: The car park is located approximately one mile from the A39. The nearest postcode is TA24 8HY1. Parking costs £2 for two hours or £5 for the whole day. National Trust members can park for free.
• Facilities: The car park includes toilet facilities and free accessible parking for Blue Badge holders.

Wistman’s Wood:

Wistman’s Wood is one of Britain’s last remaining ancient temperate rainforests, located on Dartmoor in Devon. The name “Wistman’s Wood” derives from the Devonshire dialect word “wisht,” meaning eerie or uncanny. The wood has a mystical and almost otherworldly feel, often described as “pixie-haunted.” The wood is home to ancient, stunted oak trees covered in mosses and lichens, creating a dense, green canopy.

• Access: The wood is accessible via a footpath from a small car park opposite Two Bridges Hotel. The walk to the wood and back is about 4 km, and the path can be rough, muddy, and wet.
• Facilities: The car park has limited spaces, and visitors are advised to avoid busy times. There are no facilities directly at the wood, so it’s best to come prepared.