A green lane in rural Devon bordered by an ancient and impressive hedgebank. There are more hedges remaining in Devon than any other county in the UK, many constructed in this classic way of stone-faced earth bank topped with hedge bushes. They create a notably species-rich habitat for wildlife, but also provide an important historical record of human activity in the area. Some hedges are continuations of Bronze Age field systems dating back 3,500 years, and at least a quarter of Devon’s hedges are at least 800 years old.
The hedge in this photograph has been long overgrown, until only mature beech trees remain. The enormous horizontal boughs on the right show that at one time the hedge was properly laid. Now it forms a tunnel of dappled shade for walkers to enjoy on this little-used trail.
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