Wistman’s Wood is a small upland oakwood in the valley of the West Dart River. Main habitats: woodland. Features of interest Wistman’s Wood NNR is the most famous of 3 high altitude woodland copses on Dartmoor. The wood is surrounded by granite tors and moorland and the NNR is important for the mosses and lichens found on the site’s trees and granite boulders. The oldest trees are about 400 years old, with the woodland area doubling in size in the last 100 years. The reserve was the site of one of the largest Bronze Age settlements in Dartmoor. The remains of almost 100 ancient buildings can be spotted. Woodland birds such as redstart and spotted flycatcher can be seen in the wood in spring and summer, along with wheatear, stonechat and whinchat in open areas. Winter brings merlins, meadow pipits and skylarks. Short-eared owls and hen harrier can be seen on the darkest winter days. Directions The nearest station is Newton Abbot (15 miles to the east). There are regular services to Two Bridges, near Princetown. See the Traveline South West website for details. Travel to Two Bridges, near Princetown on either the B3212 or B3357. Park at the old quarry, opposite the Two Bridges Hotel. From the car park opposite Two Bridges Hotel, follow the public footpath north to Wistman’s Wood for 1.25 miles. Although fairly level, the track is rugged and therefore only suitable for all-terrain mobility scooters (not standard wheelchairs). Contact For more information about the reserve, to discuss school visits or volunteering opportunities contact enquiries@naturalengland.org.uk or telephone 0300 060 3900.