South Devon Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty facts for kids
Quick facts for kids South Devon |
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IUCN Category V (Protected Landscape/Seascape)
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Slapton Sands in the South Devon AONB
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| Location | Devon, England |
| Established | confirmed August 1960 |
The South Devon Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty (AONB) is a special protected area in Devon, England. It covers about 337 square kilometres. This includes much of the South Hams area and the rugged coastline. The coastline stretches from Jennycliff all the way to Elberry Cove near Brixham.
An Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty is a place chosen for its amazing natural beauty. The main goal is to protect and improve this beauty. The South Devon AONB was officially named in August 1960. The highest point in this area is Blackdown Camp, which is 199 metres above sea level.
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Welcome to South Devon AONB!
The South Devon AONB is a fantastic place. It has many different types of beautiful scenery. This area is protected so everyone can enjoy it. It is also a safe home for many plants and animals.
What Makes South Devon Special?
This AONB is known for many things. It has a coastline that is mostly untouched by buildings. There are also wide river mouths called estuaries. You can see amazing rock formations and land shapes. The area offers huge, sweeping views that go on for miles.
Amazing Landscapes and Views
The land here has old farm fields. These fields have special walls called Devon banks. These banks are made of earth and stone. Many parts of the AONB are very peaceful and quiet. At night, the sky is dark. You can see many stars. This makes for beautiful natural nightscapes.
The area also has many historic features. There are old, narrow roads called green lanes. These lanes are often surrounded by trees. The AONB is famous for its cultural links. It has many charming villages and small groups of houses.
Protecting Nature and Wildlife
The South Devon AONB is home to important natural sites. It includes several Sites of Special Scientific Interest (SSSIs). These are places that are protected because of their special wildlife or geology. Two of these are national nature reserves. Four are also Special Areas of Conservation.
This area is very important for certain animals and plants. It has large groups of greater horseshoe bats. You can also find the cirl bunting, a special bird. Rare plants like shore dock grow here. The great green bush cricket also lives in this area.
Exploring the Coast and Villages
The AONB offers many ways to explore. A long walking path runs through it. This path lets you see the beautiful coast.
Famous Coastal Spots
A 97-kilometre part of the South West Coast Path is in the AONB. This path is great for hiking. You can see 10 kilometres of tall cliffs at Bolt Head. Bolberry Down is another special place. It is one of the longest parts of the coast owned by the National Trust. The National Trust helps protect important places. Prawle Point is also in the AONB. It is the most southern point in Devon.
Charming Towns and Villages
Many towns and villages are found within the AONB. These include Bigbury and Burgh Island. You can also find Kingsbridge and Newton Ferrers. Other places are Battisborough Cross and Salcombe. Salcombe is on the Kingsbridge Estuary. Slapton and Wembury are also here. Finally, Dartmouth and Kingswear sit on opposite sides of the River Dart Estuary.
