Tramlines Wood

Tramlines is a long, linear--shaped ancient woodland very close to the town of Okehampton. The site lies on a steep slope and is dissected by many streams and wet flushes which feed into the East Okement River, which itself flows along the northern boundary of the site. To the western end the river and woodland are abutted by an open field which was planted with trees as part of the Trust's 'Woods On Your Doorstep' millennium project.

The wood is likely to have had its origins in the 12th century Okehampton Deer Park. The ancient woodland area is a good example of western upland oak woodland important for lichens and pied flycatchers. The ancient woodland here is also of local importance, as its identification as a Local Wildlife Site reflects.

In recent decades the woodland has received little management input and is composed primarily of high forest structure with hazel and holly regeneration. Cattle historically had access to the wood as part of a much bigger grazing unit which may have helped to control species like holly. There are a number of significant older trees that could be deemed to be of veteran interest. Additionally, the riverside strip is very varied in structure and this, along with the boggy wet flushes, dramatically increases the biodiversity of the site.

A wooden bridge spanning the Okement River allows local public access to the site by connecting to a new path which leads from Simmons Park.