Ludwell Valley Park

This attractive 'island' of farmland within the City is located between Wonford and Rydon Lane and has marvellous views of the City and Estuary.

Introduction

The park is a working farm on the edge of the busy city of Exeter. Many of the fields provide free access to people wishing to enjoy this tranquil setting.

Next to the farmland is Wonford Playing Fields where there is space to kick a ball around, jog with the dog, or take a leisurely stroll beside the Northbrook. The valley is a real wildlife haven. Harvest mice nest in the fields, whitethroats and blackcaps skulk in the hedgerows and orange-tip and painted lady butterflies feed on the wildflowers.

Getting around the park

Access is from Ludwell Lane, Topsham Road, Parkland Drive and Pynes Hill.  A number of circular walks can be made throughout the area.  Some land in the Park is privately owned and so access is only allowed into fields when a stile or kissgate is provided.

Getting there

• Bus stops along Topsham Road and Rifford Road
• Car parking at Wonford Sports Centre, Northbrook Golf Course (summer only) and Pynes Hill
• A cycle ride or pleasant walk from the Riverside Valley Park

Download the walk leaflet which contains a detailed map of the area and more information about the highlights of the walk itself.

Caring for the park

Ludwell is valuable for the large numbers of farmland birds that live there - birds such as Chaffinch, Goldfinch, as well as the rarer Cirl Bunting and Yellowhammer.

The way that the area is managed is summarised in the plan below:

•  Ludwell Valley Park [2Mb]