Black-a-Tor Copse NNR
Black-a-Tor Copse is an area of woodland, granite clitter (rocks) and moorland 380 metres above sea level. The reserve is one of Britain's best examples of high altitude oak woodland and is nationally important for the variety of lichens and mosses that clothe the trees and rocks.
County: Devon
Main habitats: Woodland
Area: 29 Ha
Twenty breeding bird species have been recorded at the reserve including the ring ouzel and redstart.
The best times to visit are mid-April to August for moorland birds and all year round for lichens and mosses.
Please note that this is an upland site where the weather can change suddenly (even in summer). Visitors should ensure that they have adequate footwear and clothing especially in winter and early spring. There are restrictions on dogs during lambing season.
Location and access
The reserve is in the valley of the West Okement River, 3 km south east of the village of Sourton (on the A386), 3 km south of the village of Meldon (on the B3260), and 7 km south west of the town of Okehampton. The nearest car park is at the Meldon Reservoir 0.5 km south of Meldon.
The nearest train station is in Okehampton. First Great Western
provides a regular train service to Plymouth (35 km to the south) and Gunnislake (21 km to the south west).
Bus services from Plymouth to Okehampton via Sourton, and Gunnislake to Okehampton via Sourton are provided by First Group.
There are 'Sunday Rover' bus services from Gunnislake and Plymouth to Okehampton via Sourton. For details go to the Devon County Council website.
Sourton is on Route 27 of the Sustrans National Cycle Network, and three local trails converge in the area: the Two Castles Trail, the West Devon Way and the Dartmoor Way. For details go the Devon County Council website.
Facilities
The nearest public toilet is at Meldon Reservoir. Refreshments are available in local towns and villages.
