Mount Fancy Farm, Somerset

Breadcrumbs

This reserve is an interesting mixture of woodland, grassland and other open habitats on the Blackdowns ridge. It has magnificent views over South Somerset.

Look out for:

Butterflies

  • Wood White
  • Small Pearl-bordered Fritillary
  • Silver-washed Fritillary
  • Green Hairstreak

Moths

  • Chimney Sweeper

Notable mammals

  • Dormouse

Features

These old meadows and rough pasture, full of wildflowers and insects, and surrounded by veteran oaks, are set in the extensive woodland habitats of the Neroche Forest. Coppice, wood-pasture and marshy grassland are the broad range of habitats present, maintained by the grazing of Exmoor Ponies.

The reserve is part of a larger Site of Special Scientific Interest, and is leased from the Forestry Commission who is leading a major landscape project for the area. This is restoring extensive areas of wildlife habitats that will soon link with our reserve. For more details see the Neroche Scheme website.

Area: 13 hectares

Directions

The reserve comprises two sections - the Mount Fancy Farm half to the east and the Shutes Farm half to the west. Access can be gained from the lanes leading from Staple Fitzpane to (and ending at) both those farms. There is only limited lane verge parking near the entrances.

Map Reference: ST 250 164 Ordnance Survey Map: 193

Notable nearby sites

Thurlbear Quarrylands BC reserve; Buckland Wood ('Quants') BC managed Forestry Commission site; Yarty Moor Somerset Wildlife Trust reserve.

Site Access and safety

The reserve is open at all times and crossed by footpaths. Currently access is only via stiles and a step-over gateway but is being improved. Soft ground (and locally very muddy after rain), and fallen wood or other tripping hazards will be encountered in most parts of the reserve.

Please do not attempt to approach or feed the Exmoor ponies - they are working animals and can be upset by dogs so please keep those on leads and under control. Ticks and adders are present on site. In strong winds please keep clear of the veteran trees.

Contact

John Davis