Walk Leader
Kirsten Peake, LRPS
Capacity
10
Heathercombe is a tranquil secluded valley with streams tumbling through woods, ponds and a lake – the setting for 30 acres of spring and summer interest (and many recent changes), including daffodils in spring followed by carpets of bluebells that complement our extensive displays of rhododendrons and azaleas. We have many unusual specimen trees including maples and flowering dogwoods, lovely cottage gardens, an orchard in a meadow of orchids and other early summer wild flowers, a bog garden, woodland garden, fernery and numerous sculptures. There are woodland walks on our 2 miles of mainly level sandy paths, with many benches and three summer houses for relaxing and taking in the sights and sounds of nature.
Heathercombe is a private garden, open on set dates through the spring and summer. They are part of the NGS and raise money for Rowcroft Hospice. Entry fee is £6.
Walk Location
50.615132143778, -3.8153242826059
Walk Directions
From Bovey Tracey fire station roundabout take the scenic B3387 to Haytor/Widecombe. 1.7 miles past Haytor Rocks (before Widecombe hill) turn right to Hound Tor and Manaton. 1.4 miles past Hound Tor turn left at Heatree Cross to Heathercombe. At the top of the hill continue straight ahead down into Heathercombe.
From the centre of Ashburton take North Street, continue over the bridge, climb for about 2 miles and take the inconspicuous right turn to Widecombe/Haytor. After about 2 miles turn left at Hemsworthy Gate onto the B3387 towards Widecombe. Take next right (before Widecombe hill) to Hound Tor and Manaton. 1.4 miles past Hound Tor turn left at Heatree Cross to Heathercombe. At the top of the hill continue straight ahead down into Heathercombe.
From Moretonhampstead take the B3212 towards Princetown. About 1 mile after Bovey Castle turn left at Watching Place Cross to Manaton. After about 2 miles turn right at Heatree Cross to Heathercombe. At the top of the hill continue straight ahead down into Heathercombe.
From Tavistock/Princetown take the B3357 to Two Bridges. Turn left here onto the B3212 towards Moretonhampstead. After the Warren House Inn, and approximately 1 mile after leaving the open moor at the cattle grid, turn right at Watching Place Cross to Manaton. After about 2 miles turn right at Heatree Cross to Heathercombe. At the top of the hill continue straight ahead down into Heathercombe.
Accessibility
Entry fee is £6. We have the garden to ourselves on the day and can stay as long as we like. This is Dartmoor so be prepared for all weathers. There is access for disabled buggies. Most paths are manmade but there are areas where it can be rough. Mostly flat (yes, on Dartmoor!) but would recommend walking boots. Self service tea and coffee at South Heathercombe tea rooms and garden. Toilets are available, including disabled. Please park in the signed area. Disabled car parking is reserved parking between North and South Heathercombe cottages. There will be a Guide to the Gardens available.
Feedback Meeting Type
Decide At Walk
Feedback Talk Date and Time