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Braunton Burrows
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About
Braunton Burrows
Braunton Burrows is one of the largest sand dune systems in the UK, spanning over 3,000 hectares in North Devon. As part of the UNESCO-designated North Devon Biosphere Reserve, it is recognized for its exceptional ecological importance, featuring a rich diversity of plant and animal life. This dynamic landscape offers visitors a chance to explore its natural beauty, learn about its history, and appreciate its role in preserving rare species and habitats.
History of Braunton Burrows
The formation of Braunton Burrows dates back thousands of years, shaped by the shifting sands and strong winds along the North Devon coast. The area has a long history of human use, with archaeological evidence suggesting that it was used for grazing by prehistoric communities. During the Second World War, Braunton Burrows was repurposed as a training ground for American troops preparing for the D-Day landings. The varied terrain of dunes provided a suitable environment for practicing beach landings and combat techniques.
Remnants of this military history can still be found in the form of old training structures and concrete blocks scattered across the dunes. After the war, the area returned to agricultural use and became a site for sheep grazing, a practice that continues to this day to help manage the growth of vegetation and maintain the open dune landscape.
In 2002, Braunton Burrows gained further recognition when it became the core of the North Devon UNESCO Biosphere Reserve, highlighting its importance not just as a local landmark but as a place of global environmental significance.
Wildlife and Ecology
Braunton Burrows is renowned for its rich biodiversity, providing a habitat for a wide range of plant and animal species. Its unique mix of dunes, wetlands, grasslands, and coastal habitats creates a mosaic of ecological niches that support both common and rare species.
Flora of Braunton Burrows: A Rich Botanical Landscape
Braunton Burrows is a dynamic habitat supporting a diverse community of over 400 plant species, uniquely adapted to its sandy, nutrient-poor soils. This rare environment fosters a vibrant tapestry of flora, many of which are rare, flowering at different times of the year to create a changing display.
Among these botanical treasures, the pyramidal orchids and butterflies’ bluebells bloom prolifically in summer, lending bright color to the landscape. Dune pansies and wild thyme also add seasonal vibrancy, thriving in the dry, sandy conditions, while the rare water germander makes an appearance, enhancing the burrows’ biodiversity.
Adding to the habitat’s unique character, the sea buckthorn bushes stand out, with their bright orange berries serving as an essential food source for local wildlife through autumn and winter.
This remarkable ecosystem also supports Euonymus europaeus—known as Spindle—which produces striking pink berries and orange seeds, providing visual interest and valuable nutrients for local fauna. Oenothera biennis (Common Evening-Primrose) adds to the diversity, with its yellow blooms opening in the evening to attract pollinators. Meanwhile, Euphorbia paralias, or Sea Spurge, thrives along the shoreline, adding a sculptural quality to the dunes and playing a vital role in stabilizing the sand.
Together, these plant species form an ecological mosaic, critical for the health of the Braunton Burrows. Conservation efforts here aim to maintain and protect this rare habitat, ensuring that each of these remarkable plants continues to thrive as part of North Devon’s natural heritage.
Butterflies and Insects: The diverse plant life supports a vibrant population of butterflies, moths, and other insects. The marbled white butterfly, small blue, and dark green fritillary are commonly seen flitting through the meadows and dune slacks. The sandy soils also host a variety of rare invertebrates, including sand wasps and dune tiger beetles.
Birdlife: The varied habitats attract a wide range of bird species, making Braunton Burrows a great spot for birdwatching. Species such as skylarks, meadow pipits, and stonechats are often spotted in the dunes, while the wetlands and salt marshes nearby provide feeding grounds for waders and wildfowl. The River Taw estuary, which lies adjacent to the Burrows, also offers additional opportunities for observing migrating birds.
Mammals and Amphibians: The dunes and surrounding wetlands support small mammals like rabbits, voles, and shrews, while badgers and foxes are known to roam the area. Natterjack toads, a species with limited distribution in the UK, have been introduced to Braunton Burrows as part of conservation efforts, benefiting from the wetland pools within the dune system.
Things to Do at Braunton Burrows
Walking and Exploring: Braunton Burrows offers a network of public footpaths and informal trails that wind through the dunes, providing plenty of opportunities for walking and exploration. While there are no formal visitor facilities, the sense of openness and wildness is part of its appeal. Walkers can enjoy the ever-changing landscapes of sand dunes, grassy plains, and wetland areas while taking in views of the Atlantic Ocean.
Wildlife Watching: With its incredible biodiversity, Braunton Burrows is a fantastic destination for wildlife enthusiasts. Birdwatchers, botanists, and nature photographers will find plenty to capture their interest, from rare plants and butterflies to the coastal bird species that frequent the area.
Guided Tours and Educational Visits: The North Devon Biosphere Reserve offers guided walks and events at Braunton Burrows, providing a deeper understanding of the area’s ecological importance. These tours often focus on the unique flora and fauna of the dunes, as well as the site’s history and role in global conservation efforts.
Picnicking and Relaxation: The natural beauty and tranquillity of Braunton Burrows make it an ideal spot for a picnic amidst the wild landscape. Visitors can find a quiet spot to enjoy the peaceful surroundings while watching the dunes shift in the coastal breeze.
Why Visit Braunton Burrows?
Braunton Burrows is a place where history, nature, and conservation converge. Its vast dunes, rare plants, and rich wildlife make it a destination of both national and international importance. For those interested in exploring North Devon’s natural heritage, Braunton Burrows offers a unique opportunity to experience a dynamic and evolving landscape that has been shaped by nature and human activity over centuries.
Whether you are looking to learn about the region’s military history, observe rare species, or simply enjoy a quiet walk through a stunning natural setting, Braunton Burrows provides an unforgettable experience in one of the UK’s most ecologically diverse environments.