Celebrate Spring at Bluebell Afternoon Tea
Running from 1pm to 4pm on Saturday 26 April the Countryside team will welcome visitors to Holyford Woods Local Nature Reserve to enjoy the woodland spring spectacle and indulge in an afternoon tea.
Visitors will be able to explore the woodland and join guided walks with the Countryside Rangers, who will share information about the woods, its management and the wonderful wildlife which call the nature reserve home. During the afternoon there will also be family crafts, campfire cooking, and a falconry display with a chance to learn more about birds of prey, many of which can be found at Holyford Woods.
Afternoon tea and homemade cakes will be available, with all proceeds going towards the ongoing management of East Devon nature reserves.
Countryside Manager, James Chubb said: “A carpet of bluebells is one of the most beautiful signs of spring. We’re excited to welcome visitors to Holyford Woods to experience this stunning natural display and to explore the secluded nature reserve which we manage year-round for conservation.”
Cllr Geoff Jung, Portfolio Holder, Coast, Country and Environment, said: “This is a wonderful opportunity for both local people and visitors to discover more about the flora, fauna and wildlife found in East Devon, and to discover what makes the district so special. As the bluebells bloom, marking the arrival of spring, we hope lots of people will join us in celebrating springtime nature at Bluebell Afternoon.”
Holyford Woods is an ancient woodland which is carefully managed by the Countryside team, for local people to enjoy, and for wildlife to thrive. Almost half the world's bluebells are found in the UK and Holyford Woods boasts an impressive display each year. The Local Nature Reserve is home to a diverse range of bats and there is a healthy population of dormice found at the reserve, despite their endangered status.
This year’s event coincides with 800th anniversary of the Ancient Borough of Colyford, and the Burgesses of Colyford have produced a Heritage trail which includes the woodland. People can find out more on the Colyford Parish Council website.
Event details
Saturday 26 April, 1pm to 4pm.
Free parking is available at Colyton Leisure East Devon/Colyton Grammar School car park (Stafford Lane, Colyford, Devon EX24 6GB). From the car park visitors should follow the bluebell signs along country lanes to access Holyford Woods Bluebell Afternoon. The walk is ¾ mile and takes approximately 20 minutes.
The Countryside Rangers can provide transport to the site for visitors with limited mobility. Please email the team in advance to arrange assistance: wild@eastdevon.gov.uk and a timed transfer slot will be allocated on a first come first served basis.
Due to the rough terrain, families are advised not to bring pushchairs. A portaloo will be available at the festival site during the day.
For more details, please visit: Event Detail