Delderfield

Delderfield is a Community Nature Reserve and a tranquil wildflower meadow. It is located on Peak Hill in Sidmouth, Devon, situated just a short distance or a stone's throw from the South West Coast Path. This location makes it an ideal spot for walkers seeking a peaceful picnic or a moment of reflection amidst nature. The reserve offers breathtaking views over Sidmouth and across the bay to Portland on clear days.

Delderfield Community Nature Reserve is managed by Wild East Devon and is listed among Sidmouth's main green spaces managed by EDDC and is one of the areas managed to promote wildflower diversity. Ecologically, the reserve is renowned for its rich biodiversity. Visitors can expect to see wildflower displays that bloom in spring and summer, including species such as southern marsh orchid, meadow vetchling, ox-eye daisy, and bird's-foot trefoil. These wildflowers support a thriving insect population, including various butterflies and bees. A well-trodden badger run can be observed halfway up the hill, indicating active small mammal presence.

Historically, the reserve is named after the novelist and dramatist R.F. Delderfield, who is best known for his works "To Serve Them All My Days" and "A Horseman Riding By," both adapted for television. Delderfield's former home, a thatched house called "The Gazebo," built in 1962, overlooks the reserve from the hillside.

Here is some visiting information:

  • Access: Access is available via a stile located in the southwest corner. Visitors can find roadside parking on Peak Hill Road out of Sidmouth. From there, you should follow the coast path up the hill; upon reaching the garage door and gate for "The Gazebo," cross the road and continue up the grass verge for a few meters until you reach the stile.
  • Terrain: The ground is sloping and uneven, making it unsuitable for wheelchair access.
  • Dogs: Dogs are welcome but must be kept under close control or on a short lead, especially if livestock are grazing or present. Owners should clean up after their pets.
  • Facilities: Picnic benches are available for visitors at the site.
  • Opening Hours: The reserve is open to the public free of charge year-round.