East Budleigh Common and Uphams Plantation Loop

Starting near the charming village of East Budleigh in Devon, England, the East Budleigh Common and Uphams Plantation Loop is a delightful 9 km (approximately 5.6 miles) trail with an elevation gain of around 100 meters (328 feet). This loop trail is rated as medium difficulty, making it suitable for moderately experienced hikers.

### Getting There To reach the trailhead, you can drive or use public transport. If driving, head towards East Budleigh and look for parking near the village center. For those using public transport, the nearest significant landmark is the East Budleigh Village Hall, which is well-connected by local bus services from Exeter and Exmouth.

### Trail Overview The trail begins near East Budleigh and quickly immerses you in the serene beauty of the Devon countryside. As you start, you'll traverse through East Budleigh Common, a picturesque area known for its heathland and scattered woodlands. The common is home to a variety of wildlife, including deer, rabbits, and numerous bird species, so keep your eyes peeled.

### Key Landmarks and Sections #### East Budleigh Common At approximately 2 km (1.2 miles) into the hike, you'll find yourself in the heart of East Budleigh Common. This area is characterized by its open heathland, dotted with gorse and heather. The common is a great spot for birdwatching, with species such as skylarks and stonechats frequently spotted.

#### Uphams Plantation Continuing on, you'll enter Uphams Plantation around the 4 km (2.5 miles) mark. This section of the trail is more wooded, offering a cool, shaded respite on warmer days. The plantation is a mix of coniferous and deciduous trees, providing a diverse habitat for wildlife. Look out for squirrels and a variety of woodland birds.

### Historical Significance The region around East Budleigh is steeped in history. The village itself is the birthplace of Sir Walter Raleigh, the famous explorer. As you hike, you'll pass near the site of his childhood home, Hayes Barton, which is a significant historical landmark. The trail also meanders through areas that have been used for centuries for agriculture and common land, giving you a sense of walking through history.

### Navigation and Safety Given the varied terrain and the mix of open and wooded areas, it's advisable to use a reliable navigation tool like HiiKER to stay on track. The trail is generally well-marked, but having a digital map can be very helpful, especially in the more densely wooded sections of Uphams Plantation.

### Flora and Fauna Throughout the hike, you'll encounter a rich variety of plant life. In the spring and summer, the heathland is ablaze with the colors of blooming heather and gorse. The wooded areas of Uphams Plantation are home to bluebells and other wildflowers. Wildlife is abundant, with opportunities to see deer, rabbits, and a wide array of bird species.

### Final Stretch As you loop back towards East Budleigh, the trail offers gentle descents and more open views of the surrounding countryside. The final 2 km (1.2 miles) provide a pleasant and scenic end to your hike, bringing you back to the village where you can explore local amenities or simply relax and enjoy the peaceful surroundings.

This trail offers a perfect blend of natural beauty, historical intrigue, and moderate physical challenge, making it a rewarding experience for any hiker.