Highlight • Forest
Hiking
5.0
(16)
Cycling
5.0
(1)
Blanchdown Wood is a captivating forest located on the eastern side of the Tamar Valley, near Gunnislake, straddling the border between Devon and Cornwall in England. Rising to an elevation of approximately 86 metres, this woodland is a significant part of the Tamar Valley Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty (AONB) and is also recognized as a Cornish Mining World Heritage Site, offering a unique blend of natural beauty and profound industrial history.
What truly draws visitors to Blanchdown Wood is…
This Highlight is in a protected area
Please check local regulations for:
Tamar Valley National Landscape
Tips
September 21, 2023
Hiking
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Nearby routes
Best routes near Blanchdown Wood
4.5
(2)
15
hikers
9.67km
02:40
160m
160m
Moderate hike. Good fitness required. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
4.6
(7)
51
hikers
7.87km
02:13
150m
160m
Moderate hike. Good fitness required. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
5.0
(2)
43
hikers
5.48km
01:34
130m
130m
Easy hike. Great for any fitness level. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
Details
Informations
Elevation 90 m
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Monday 16 March
11°C
7°C
21 %
Additional weather tips
Max wind speed: 26.0 km/h
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Blanchdown Wood offers a complex network of multi-use trails and unsigned paths suitable for walkers, cyclists, and horse riders. The terrain includes easy tracks and paths, but also features some steady climbs. While many routes are accessible, some areas, particularly those exploring the mining heritage, may involve uneven ground and require sturdy footwear.
Yes, Blanchdown Wood is considered family-friendly. There are various trails that cater to different abilities, including gentler rambles. The historical mining remnants can also be a fascinating educational experience for older children. However, parents should be mindful of the uneven terrain in some areas and the presence of historic mining features.
Yes, Blanchdown Wood is generally dog-friendly, and many routes are suitable for walks with your canine companion. It's always recommended to keep dogs under control, especially given the presence of wildlife and other visitors. Please be mindful of any signage regarding livestock or sensitive habitats.
While the intro mentions parking, specific details are not provided in the available data. Visitors typically access the wood from various points around the Tamar Valley. It's advisable to check local signage or online maps for designated parking areas near popular trailheads before your visit.
The time it takes to walk through Blanchdown Wood can vary greatly depending on your chosen route and pace. With a network of trails ranging from easy paths to more challenging climbs, you can opt for a short, leisurely stroll of an hour or two, or embark on a longer exploration that could take half a day or more. Many visitors combine their walk with exploring the mining heritage sites.
Blanchdown Wood is located near Gunnislake and within the broader Tamar Valley area. You can find cafes, pubs, and accommodation options in nearby towns and villages such as Gunnislake, Tavistock, or within the Tamar Valley itself. For specific recommendations, you might check resources like visittamarvalley.co.uk or visit-tavistock.co.uk.
Given the varied terrain and historical features, sturdy footwear is highly recommended. Depending on the weather, waterproofs and layers are advisable. Bringing water and snacks is always a good idea, especially for longer explorations. If you plan to delve into the mining history, a headlamp or torch might be useful for peering into certain remnants, though caution is advised.
While the wood features 'easy tracks and paths,' the presence of historic mining remains and some steady climbs suggests that not all trails may be fully accessible for wheelchairs or robust strollers. It's best to consult specific trail maps or local visitor information for details on routes designed for enhanced accessibility.
From elevated positions within Blanchdown Wood, visitors can enjoy impressive vistas across the Tamar Valley. These viewpoints often offer glimpses of notable landmarks like Hingston Down and Kit Hill, providing tranquil moments amidst the natural environment. Exploring the network of trails will lead you to various scenic spots.
Blanchdown Wood is intrinsically linked to the Devon Great Consols mine, once Europe's largest copper supplier. The area is a Cornish Mining World Heritage Site, featuring extensive remnants of 19th-century industrial activity. Visitors can explore shallow mine workings, spoil heaps, an old mineral railway trackbed, and even a tall arsenic chimney stack from 1922, showcasing its past as a major arsenic producer.