Hayes Wood, Wheathill Plantation and Bicton Common Loop

Starting near Devon, England, the Hayes Wood, Wheathill Plantation, and Bicton Common Loop is an 8 km (approximately 5 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, set your GPS to Bicton Park Botanical Gardens, which is the nearest significant landmark. There is ample parking available. For those using public transport, the nearest train station is in Exmouth. From Exmouth, you can take a local bus to Bicton Park Botanical Gardens.

### Trail Overview The trail begins near Bicton Park Botanical Gardens, a historic estate known for its beautifully landscaped gardens. As you start your hike, you'll enter Hayes Wood, a serene woodland area filled with a variety of native trees such as oak, beech, and ash. This section is relatively flat, making it a gentle introduction to the hike.

### Hayes Wood to Wheathill Plantation After approximately 2 km (1.2 miles), you'll transition from Hayes Wood to Wheathill Plantation. This area is slightly more challenging, with a gradual incline that will take you up about 50 meters (164 feet) in elevation. The plantation is a mix of coniferous and deciduous trees, providing a diverse habitat for wildlife. Keep an eye out for deer, foxes, and a variety of bird species, including woodpeckers and owls.

### Wheathill Plantation to Bicton Common Continuing for another 3 km (1.9 miles), you'll reach Bicton Common. This open heathland is a stark contrast to the dense woods you've just traversed. The common is home to a variety of heathland plants, including heather and gorse, which bloom beautifully in late summer. The terrain here is undulating, with minor elevation changes that add up to another 50 meters (164 feet) of gain.

### Historical Significance Bicton Common has historical significance dating back to the Bronze Age. You may come across ancient burial mounds known as barrows. These archaeological features offer a glimpse into the area's long history of human settlement. Additionally, the common was used for military training during World War II, and you might spot remnants of old bunkers and trenches.

### Navigation and Safety Given the mix of woodland and open heathland, it's advisable to use a reliable navigation tool like HiiKER to stay on track. The trail is well-marked, but having a digital map can be very helpful, especially in the more open sections where paths can be less distinct.

### Final Stretch The final 3 km (1.9 miles) loop back towards Bicton Park Botanical Gardens. This section is mostly downhill, making for a pleasant and easy finish to your hike. As you descend, you'll pass through more mixed woodland, eventually emerging back near the gardens where you started.

This trail offers a wonderful mix of natural beauty, wildlife, and historical intrigue, making it a rewarding hike for those looking to explore the Devon countryside.