Devon Hedges

A world-class resource

Devon has more hedges than any other place in the UK. 53,000 km (33,000 miles) remain, forming a network from coast to coast that is broken only by cities, major roads, rivers and the high moors. Even better, most of these hedges are of high quality – the county has about one fifth of all the species-rich hedges in England. Together they are of international importance, as an historical, cultural, wildlife and landscape resource. They are world class!

See Devon hedges: an introduction for further general information.

Definitions

A Devon hedge is a linear earth bank, faced either with stone or turf, with native trees or shrubs growing on it. Sometimes banks which have no trees or shrubs growing on them are called hedges in Devon.

The complete Devon hedge has a not just a bank with shrubs and the occasional mature tree growing on it, but also associated flower-rich margins and ideally a ditch too.

For definitions of hedge terms used in Devon, see Glossary.

Herb-rich hedge margin, Dillings, Locks Park, 6 Aug 13, Rob Wolton

Herb-rich hedge margin, Dillings, Locks Park, 6 Aug 13, Rob Wolton

Types of Devon hedge

Across the county there are many types of Devon hedge, depending on bank structure and the species of shrub or tree growing on them. For further information see the interactive Distinctive Hedge Map.

You can learn more about Devon Hedges by clicking on the links below, or by choosing from the other sections in the menu under Devon Hedges.

Farming

Hedge Condition

History

Uses (Ecosystem Services)

Wildlife

Woodfuel