On the eastern fringe of Dartmoor, just a couple of minutes from Bovey Tracey, lies England’s first National Nature Reserve.

The reserve was set up over half a century ago to protect its western oak woodland and the lichens and mosses that cling to them. But more than just protection, the site was used as a living laboratory for scientific research by students and study groups who wanted to learn more about the biodiversity here and how to conserve it. 

Previously, Yarner Wood was once a working woodland – its oaks used for charcoal. Look out for flat circular areas approximately 5 metres in diameter which were used as charcoal hearths.

Today you can expect to see a variety of uncommon birds, including the lesser spotted woodpeckers and wood warblers (which you can spot from multiple bird hides), a diverse range of plant species, and of course fantastic oak trees.

There are multiple circular routes you can take, of varying length, to enjoy the reserve. We’re focusing on one that takes in some of the best highlights.

From the car park, cross over the road signposted Yarner Wood and follow the track through the gate to enter the reserve. (1) Turn left, and then after a turning on your right, take the left path again to visit the reservoir bird hide.

Continue along this gravel trail downhill until you reach a T junction. (2) Turn right here to follow the path to the visitor centre where you’ll find toilets, disabled parking and leaflets with more information about the wildlife you can find here. There’s also a pond hide for watching wetland wildlife.

(3) Take the path opposite the visitor centre, through the gate and into the woods then over the stream. (4) Turn right at the end, and follow the road/track uphill.

As the climb lessens, there’s a chance to rest in another bird hide on your left. Otherwise, continue on, later passing the turning to the Woodland Centre on your left, (5) and eventually taking a path on your right.

(6) Follow this path across a crossroad junction, deeper into the woodland. Keep your eye out for red wood ants farming aphids for their sticky honeydew. 

(7) Evenutally you’ll come to another crossroads. On the right here is the site of a charcoal hearth and an information board. Continue straight, down the hill, and you’ll reach a pagoda – currently being used to exhibit the wildlife photography of Yarner Wood volunteer, David Tilsley.

(8) Follow the path round to the right and take the next left, (9) uphill to get you back to the first bird hide. Retrace your steps back to the car park.

At the car park enjoy a fantastic view over Pullabrook Woods and the River Bovey valley.