3. Ideford Common

A large heathland common in the Haldon Hills.

Site Description
Ideford Common is a large triangle of lowland heath (39.8 hectares/98 acres) on the southern edge of the Haldon Hills. Heathland habitat has become increasingly rare - both locally and nationally - over the last two centuries, with the importance of Ideford Common confirmed by its Site of Special Scientific Interest (SSSI) status. It is notable both for its breeding birds and for its invertebrates. The site has been managed by Teignbridge District Council's Ranger Service since 1993 when it was leased from the Clifford Estate Company. Management is for the benefit of nature conservation and quiet recreation.

 

Facilities include:
* Free parking - the site has a small, shady car park north of the site
* Public transport nearby
* Seats where people may rest and enjoy the view
* Interpretation board

Location and Access
Ideford Common is on the southern edge of the Haldon Hills quite close to Ashcombe. Leave the A380 at the Ashcombe Cross junction and take the B3192 Teignmouth Road. Take the first right (400m after the roundabout) down an unsigned lane. Just as this lane turns sharp left you will see the Ideford Common car park in front of you.

Once at the site there is a network of tracks which provide access around the site. Three of the tracks are designated public bridleways and access on horseback and bicycle is permitted over those. All other tracks, one of which is designated as a public footpath, are pedestrian access only. Although many of the trackways are quite level in gradient and therefore suitable for less mobile peolpe, their surface consists of eroded, exposed flints. Therefore they are not suitable for conventional wheelchairs, electric scooters and pushchairs.

Grid Ref: SX 903791
Red dot = Main entrance