Peak Wood

Peak Wood is a small woodland area located on the western edge of Sidmouth, adjacent to Peak Hill. It is managed by the National Trust and is part of the broader Sidmouth countryside landscape. The woodland is situated on high ground. Its underlying geology is Upper Greensand, a formation typically found on the high ground on the valley sides.

Peak Wood is described as an "open" woodland. It features a mix of regenerated scrub and broadleaf trees, interspersed with open grassland areas. There are a small number of introduced trees present. The woodland appears to have historical significance, possibly having once been part of a garden area. This is suggested by the presence of a bank and a tree-lined border to the west, separating it from adjacent pastures, which indicates that grazing animals were likely excluded in the past.

Peak Wood is one of the twelve sites designated as primarily woodland in the Sidmouth Nature project survey. The survey recorded a total of 101 plant species at the site. Of these, 70 species were classified as woodland species, resulting in a dominance of woodland species of 69.3%.

The woodland supports a diverse range of plant species. Greater Stitchwort (Stellaria holostea) has been recorded flowering in the area during April. The area is described as being "full of interest".

Visitors can access Peak Wood via paths from Peak Hill Road or from the Muttersmoor Car Park. The terrain is generally level, making it suitable for a range of walking abilities. The wood offers scenic walks. There is a provided bench seat where one can sit and watch butterflies on a summer's day.

Adjacent to Peak Wood is Peak House, a historic building dating back to the late 18th century. The grassland area on Peak Hill, adjacent to Peak Wood, is home to a large colony of yellow flowered Meadow Vetchling. Cliff erosion at Peak Hill is identified as a concern in the Sidmouth Beach Management Plan. Roadside parking coming up Peak Hill, which serves the nearby Delderfield nature reserve, is also noted in relation to accessing the area.