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!
Splashing and swimming in the sea

South Hams Adventures with your Dog, by Ruth Saunders

Try a new holiday experience with your dog while you are on holiday in the very dog-friendly area of the South Hams in South Devon.
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!
ditoutdoorsbolthead2-16

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.
ditbutterflytortoishell3-08mac

A Favourite Nature Event at Dittiscombe, by Ruth Saunders

We have no light pollution here in Dittiscombe valley so our dark skies are dotted with stars, and sometimes we see the Milky Way too. Last night was no exception . . .
ditoutdoorscothele3-15

Enter the Enchanted Tamar Valley

The National Trust house of Cotehele in the Tamar Valley of Cornwall is set in a tranquil place and it's easy to lose yourself in the gardens and ancient woodland.
Colyton Fishacre

Coleton Fishacre – a National Trust gem

Built by the D'Oyly Carte family in the 1920s, this Arts and Crafts house is imbued with the Jazz Age - but step outside and the exotic garden takes centre stage.
Stuffed Duck

In Pursuit of Spring

At Dittiscombe in South Devon Ruth has been watching the wildlife in the valley as it continues with its daily rituals. There has been plenty of wildlife action, from delightful Thrush songs to a brief visit from some unusual visitors.
Starling sunrise at Dittiscombe

The Twelve Degrees of Christmas

Up early and armed with a camera and trusy dog Kes, Ruth set off in pursuit of some beautiful photos in the valley at Dittiscombe on Christmas Day. First up a starling sunrise to start the beginning of what was to be a perfect day.
Translate »