Along the western fringe of Courtenay Wood stand mature conifer trees planted in 1967. Species such as Japanese larch and Douglas fir have thrived, forming an impressive canopy and providing a valuable timber resource. This offers the purchaser opportunities for small-scale forestry and timber projects, or the option to market the timber commercially.

The remainder of the woodland was largely planted with Sitka spruce in 1968, with areas along the eastern boundary developing into a more naturalised mix of native broadleaved species. As part of the ongoing Ancient Woodland Restoration, most of the Sitka spruce has now been removed. In several areas, natural regeneration—particularly of birch—is progressing well.

The naturalised woodland includes species such as birch, beech, rowan, and hazel, while other cleared sections have been recently replanted with native broadleaved trees including sessile oak, rowan, silver birch, hornbeam, and hazel.

In the central part of the woodland lies an established grove of wild cherry, planted in 1988, which adds seasonal interest and further biodiversity value.

The mixed woodland habitat, together with the stream, creates an excellent mosaic of habitats that supports a wide range of wildlife. The stream provides a reliable water source for resident mammals, including red and roe deer, while badgers are also known to frequent the woodland.

Flowing from south to north through the central part of the site, the stream offers high-quality habitat for frogs and other amphibians, as well as a variety of water-associated bird species, further enhancing the ecological value of the woodland.

A rustic picnic bench is situated within a charming open glade, providing an ideal setting for family picnics and quiet enjoyment of the woodland.

An old hedge bank runs along the eastern boundary and supports a number of important mature trees, playing a valuable role in the natural spread of seed and the regeneration of new woodland.

A small footbridge crosses the stream, allowing easy access through the woodland while adding to its traditional rural character.

From the main road, a tarmac drive leads to a shared entrance gate. Beyond the gate, a shared stone forestry track provides access to a generous parking area.

Within the woodland, an internal private track runs along the western side, offering convenient access through the site. A pedestrian track crosses the stream and leads up to the centre of the woodland, where it connects with a further track running through the heart of the trees.

There are no public footpaths crossing the woodland, ensuring a high degree of privacy and seclusion.

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.

The woodland offers a peaceful retreat, ideal for occasional camping with family and friends, providing a welcome escape from the pressures of everyday life.

Wildlife is abundant both within the woodland and the surrounding area and can be enjoyed through the construction of a simple wildlife hide or by discreetly positioning wildlife cameras to capture special moments in the natural environment.

Subject to the necessary permissions, a forestry store could be installed to provide secure storage for tools and equipment, as well as shelter during inclement weather.

Courtenay Wood is well placed with many services nearby and is conveniently located in mid-Devon with easy access the north Devon coast. Unusually this is a woodland you can visit by train to reduce your "carbon footprint" - the Portsmouth Arms train station within a 10 minute walk!

Portsmouth Arms station is part of the Tarka line which is famous for being one of the most beautiful train journeys in the country. It also links directly to Exeter. Conveniently near the main entrance which to Courtenay Wood is the Portsmouth Arms Inn, handily sited for refreshments after a day in your woodland.

As an alternative to camping, perhaps during colder weather, when visiting your woodland there is Northcote Manor country hotel within a 5 minute walk. You can also eat here in the evenings.

Courtenay Wood is situated about 8 miles south from the busy town of Barnstaple which is the gateway to explore the rugged coast of north Devon with many beautiful beaches such as Westward Ho! and the surfing beaches of Croyde and Woolacombe. The City of Exeter is approximately 20 miles south and has many shops and historic buildings such as Exeter Cathedral and the remains of the roman city wall.

The small Saxon market town of Chulmleigh is a few miles south and is referred to in the Doomsday Book of 1086 as 'Calmonlevge', meaning a 'woodland clearing' (Leah in Old English). Chulmleigh was passed by marriage to the Courtenay family in 1188, and John Courtenay granted the right to hold a weekly market and an annual fair in Chulmleigh in 1253. The fair was held on 22 July which is St Mary Magdalene's feast day which implies there was already an existing church at this location dedicated to that saint.

Particulars and plans were prepared by our local manager, Stuart Brooking.