This wooded hill, known as the Cairn, stands 520 feet (158m) above sea level, offering fine views of Ilfracombe and the surrounding countryside. A hundred years ago it was covered in gorse and rough grass, until the local council planted the whole 19 acres (7 hectares) with a mixture of deciduous and conifer trees and converted the area into a ‘country park’ with numerous pathways and shelters. Today the Cairn is a haven for wildlife and is managed as a local nature reserve. It is said that there are over 26 different tree species on site, including some rare lime trees.

For more information visit Cairn Woodland Local Nature Reserve – Visit Ilfracombe