Whether you’re a keen bird-watcher, an expert on butterflies, have an interest in
wild flowers or simply enjoy strolling in beautiful countryside, Thorncombe and its
surroundings have a huge amount to offer.
The land around the village is hilly, the valleys can be wide and shallow or steep-sided
and secret. Thorncombe itself is bordered by three rivers; the Axe, the Synderford
and the Blackwater making a rough triangle.
Each of these rivers is edged with trees - there are numerous bridging points -
and the fields in between are mostly quite small with generous hedges.
Many of the local roads are lined with trees, sometimes arching to form dark tunnels,
and lined with primroses and bluebells in spring. Many local woods are carpeted with
bluebells and wood anemones. It’s easy to find evidence of badgers, foxes and deer
in the woods and banks. Buzzards circle over the valleys, and other birds of prey
are frequently seen.
Farming now is mostly arable, although there are some dairy herds in the area and
fields are grazed by cows and sheep, as well as alpacas.
The network of footpaths is clearly signposted and there are many circular walks,
both short and more strenuous.
