Aerial view of Dittiscombe Estate in 2007

Rewilding – Could Messy Gardening Save the Planet?

Now referred to as Rewilding, can we help the planet by doing virtually nothing in our own back gardens? At Dittiscombe Estate we've been rewilding a previously farmed valley for over 20 years. Find out if the proof is in the oak tree!
South Devon Lanes

Driving Devon Lanes & the Art of Mindfulness

As the lanes are a very special feature of our South Devon landscape it would be a shame to miss out on all they have to offer, so take your time, be part of the slow holiday movement and leave with some special memories of primrose-clad banks and pensive buzzards.
Torcross beach and Slapton Ley

Start Bay: Stories Old & New

Ruth Saunders took a closer look at the sweeping beaches of Start Bay near Dittiscombe and found a wealth of interesting geological formations; secret wartime stories; piracy; the lost village of Hallsands, and changing coastal landscapes.
Start Point South Devon

As a holiday destination the South Hams has it all!

As a holiday destination the South Hams really does have it all. It is treasured by returning visitors for its tranquil and charming land and seascapes. Bill Bryson thinks so too, describing Start Bay as 'one of the loveliest' views in England. Ruth Saunders tells you why!
Forest Bathing at Dittiscombe Estate & Cottages

Rewilding Reflections by Ruth Saunders

As the conversations around rewilding grow and widen, we can all revisit the lost skills of observation, patience and trust to help us understand, appreciate and re-engage with the natural world.
The future look - rewilding the landscapeRewilding Britain

Rewilding at Dittiscombe by Ruth Saunders

We started rewilding at Dittiscombe in 1998 which became a journey in understanding a new set of nature's rules and learning to love a different type of landscape.
Sea Dogs of Start Bay

Sea Dogs of Start Bay

Julie Hinder was intrigued to find our more about the brave Sea Dogs of Start Bay who swam out and helped bring in the catch for fishing communities.
Wildflower bank in Devon

The Secret World of a South Devon Hedgerow by Ruth Saunders

Devon hedgerows burst with wildflowers between April and July, so it's a perfect time to enjoy these abundant displays. But they are also wonderful wildlife corridors and areas of true biodiversity. A walk or cycle along a Devon green lane will be a journey of discovery!
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An Exotic National Trust Garden with Sea Views, by Ruth Saunders

The National Trust's Overbeck's garden and museum is tucked into a belt of woodland high above Salcombe estuary and beaches, and is a stone's throw from dramatic and spectacular views around Starehole Bay at Bolt Head on the the South West Coast Path.
Memorial Tank at Torcross, South Devon

Michael Morpurgo’s war time story set in Slapton

Michael Morpurgo's book The Amazing Story of Adolphus Tips, of the D Day Landing practices which took place at Slapton Sands near Dittiscombe, is for both children and adults.
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