Designated as a local nature reserve by Taunton Deane Borough Council in 2008, Otterhead is an almost forgotten Somerset Victorian landscape in the Blackdown Hills Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty. It is within walking distance of the South Somerset, East Devon and Mid Devon District Council boundaries. The Otterhead Estate is now being rediscovered, conserved and where possible, restored. The site includes the Otterhead Lakes, a one mile long chain of seven lakes and former lakes of various sizes, fed by the River Otter. Heritage features include the site of Otterhead House demolished in 1952.

Partner: Otterhead Estate Trust Company Limited

Address: Otterhead Estate and Lakes Local Nature Reserve Otterford and Churchstanton Church Lane Otterford Taunton

Postcode: TA3 7EF

OS Grid ref: ST224141

Further information: The Otterhead Estate is situated between Taunton and Honiton close to the B3170 road. The village of Churchingford (or Churchinford) is within walking distance. Facilities at the reserve include nature trail, picnic area with lake views, walks through various habitats and a car park. Please note that there are quite steep slopes and that although Churchingford (Churchinford) has a general stores, sub post office, inn and BT payphone, bus services are infrequent. Besides local nature reserve status, the Otterhead Estate is an example of a lost garden. Pictures of some of the surviving ornamental plants are on this website. Otterhead is believed to be one of the few locations in the United Kingdom where various forms of the North American Rhododendron maximum still survive (see picture). Otterhead is also particularly noted for snowdrops and narcissi but native bluebells, foxgloves and marsh marigolds rival the display of the surviving ornamental plants in the former gardens. DISABLED ACCESS: Please note that this is limited by steps and a slope from the car park to the main drive; the drive has a reasonable surface as far as the House Lake. The Estate Trust is exploring ways of improving disabled access.

More Details available from: Otterhead Estate and Lakes Website Administrator

Email: otterheadestate@aol.com

Tel: 01404 47347

www: click here

The BBC is not responsible for the content of external sites listed.