The quiet end of Woodlands Park, relax and enjoy the peace, tranquillity and wildlife around you in this ancient wood. During Bluebell time you will see rural Devon at its very best.
What is now Woodlands Family Theme Park, Dartmouth was once the grounds of a local mansion, Oldstone. During the mid 13th century Oldstone belonged to the monks of Torre Abbey who owned extensive lands in Blackawton. One monk lived as a hermit in a cave, local villagers brought food to leave outside the cave for the monk, but they were afraid to enter the grounds after dark. It is still very eerie near the Monks Cave after dark.
Newly restocked with Rainbow Trout, Brown Trout and Golden Orfe, its fascinating to watch them gather at feeding time. Rainbow Trout average about 20 to 30 inches, but can grow as long as 4 feet (1.2 meters) and weigh up to 53 pounds (24 kg) – can you spot the big boy?
Golden Orfe grow to around 18" in length. Orfe are fast swimmers and need a lot of oxygen so spend most of the time near the surface of the pond These yellowish-orange colored fish are quick moving and are sociable fish, they can be seen darting around the surface of the pond as a shoal.
Away from the hustle and bustle of the action park discover the peace and quiet of the ancient woodland. Discover that learning about Devon Wildlife is fun with the Woodlands Wildlife & Conservation Panels.
From the first snowdrops to primroses from the wonderful drifts of Bluebells to the cherry blossom spring is perfect in the tranquil woodland. The Wildlife Sanctuary is a joy for Birdwatchers who may catch a glimpse of the elusive Kingfisher, a Heron fishing or the Treecreeper busy on an Oak Tree trunk.