Nature Features

A new, environmentally friendly attraction is opened to the public this spring which is green in every sense of the word.

Haldon Forest Park off the A38 near Exeter has been created thanks to a three-quarters of a million pound grant from the Active England lottery distribution fund managed by Sport England.

It features a 20-mile network of walks and cycle trails for all ages and abilities, horse riding routes, and a play trail for youngsters. Some of the walks have fantastic views across the forest and over the Teign Valley.

One of the wooden shelters in the park

Haldon Forest is managed by the Forestry Commission, whose Active Woods campaign aims to get more people improving their health with exercise and fresh air in the nation's forests and woods.

The 1,4000-hectare park is officially opened on 15th April 2006, but some elements - including the play trail - are already up and running.

The 1.5 mile play trail is seen as particularly important, in encouraging children to get out and about and appreciating our natural world.

The wooden play equipment includes giant musical instruments and climbing structures linked by ropes, balance beams and hammocks.

Kids can set and take in the views

There is also a secret pathway which follows a natural deer trail through a maze of pine trees.

Dens have been created, with materials provided for kids to build their on hide-holes, and there is and an outdoor theatre area with a story-telling throne.

These areas take the children past the birds of prey observation into Tower Wood - again encouraging them to take an interest in nature.

But Haldon Forest Park isn't just for the kids. It's a relaxing place for everyone to take in the views and fresh air. 

It's also also home to the Centre for Contemporary Art and the Natural World, which has a programme of international and local exhibitions.

For more information on the forest park, visit the website which is linked from the top right of this page.