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6: Managed Green Havens—Where Heritage Meets Habitats
6: Managed Green Havens—Where Heritage Meets Habitats
Explore the wildlife of Sidmouth's managed sites. From the rare lichens of the Parish Churchyard to the prehistoric trees of Connaught Gardens and the riverside beauty of The Byes.
In Sidmouth, "Managed Sites" are those with significant human design and regular maintenance. These areas often blend exotic horticultural beauty with vital ecological niches.
Connaught Gardens: Officially opened in 1934, these gardens on Peak Hill are famous for their "outdoor rooms". Beyond the blooms, the Cretaceous Arboretum project introduces trees reminiscent of prehistoric eras, like magnolias and palms.
Glen Goyle: A "hidden" narrow valley on the western side of town. Once neglected, it is being restored by volunteers (FOGG) who remove invasive ivy and brambles to let native flora return to the banks of its small brook.
Running two kilometres between Sidford and the Old Toll House, The Byes Riverside Park is a crucial biodiversity corridor.
Why it's "Brownfield": Though it looks natural, it is designated as a brownfield site due to its history of human land use, including mown amenity lawns and introduced tree species.
Diverse Habitats: It supports a "mosaic" of the River Sid, parkland woodland, and wildflower meadows managed by the Sid Vale Association (SVA).
Even the most manicured areas of the town centre hold ecological surprises:
Blackmore Gardens: Known for its vibrant Dogwood, which provides essential winter colour and structure.
The Parish Churchyard: A haven for lichens. The old lime mortar in the churchyard walls allows plants like Pellitory-of-the-wall to take root—something modern cement doesn't allow.
The Fortfield & Bowling Green: The grass near the bowling green hosts rare Waxcap fungi in autumn. Meanwhile, the old field boundary banks behind the tennis courts support Wild Strawberries and Purple Ramping-fumitory.
4. Private Refuges: Powys House
4. Private Refuges: Powys House
Not all important sites are public. The five-acre grounds of Powys House feature large south-facing lawns and mature trees that provide a secluded environment for wildlife in the heart of the town.
Before you go
The "Wall-Watcher" Survey
The "Wall-Watcher" Survey
Objective: To identify how man-made structures (like walls) provide a home for specialised plants.
Visit a "Stone Jungle": Go to the Parish Churchyard or any old stone wall in Sidmouth.
Inspect the Mortar: Look at the gaps between the stones.
Does the wall use grey, hard cement or crumbly, light-colored lime mortar?
Can you find Pellitory-of-the-wall (a plant with reddish stems and greenish flowers) growing from the base?
Lichen Hunt: How many different colours of lichen can you see on a single gravestone or wall section? (Hint: Look for crusty oranges, leafy greys, and powdery yellows).
Reflection: Why do you think an "old" wall is better for wildlife than a brand-new brick wall
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