Green Circle 2: Ludwell Valley Walk
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The walk starts where Section 1 finished, next to the Exeter Ship Canal. With the canal to your back continue over Duck's Marsh Bridge, which links the east and west of Exeter City. This crosses the River Exe with the weirs and old mill. The Countess Wear Mill operated from 1638 to the late 19th Century as a cornmill before changing later on to a paper-mill. The power for the old mill was generated from the leat flowing from St James Weir. The mill leat and pool is now home for many insects and at dusk look out for the bats hunting the insects for food. Also at St James' Weir you can sit and watch the salmon leaping with the tranquil sound of running water.
Once away from the river, the walk continues into Ludwell Valley Park with the stream running through the centre and the high meadows overlooking the park. The little stream is full of sticklebacks, which provide food for the kingfishers and young egrets. If you are lucky you may see the odd mink out looking for food.
Further on the route takes you through leafy suburbs on the eastern side of the city and after coming out of Ludwell Valley Park, the walk winds on through quiet roads and lanes which link Wonford and Whipton. The name of the roads in this area like Sweetbriar Lane and Woodwater Lane, show the rural nature of the area in years gone by.
England - South West England - Devon - Blackdown Hills
Features
Ancient Monument, Birds, Butterflies, Church, Flowers, Good for Kids, Great Views, Hills or Fells, Industrial Archaeology, Mostly Flat, Nature Trail, Play Area, Pub, Public Transport, River, Toilets, Wildlife, Woodland
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