Best natural monuments around Woodbury feature a diverse coastal landscape. This region is characterized by its estuaries, beaches, and significant geological formations. Visitors can explore areas with rich biodiversity, ancient rock formations, and scenic coastal views. The natural environment offers opportunities for appreciating unique ecosystems and historical geological sites.
Last updated: May 13, 2026
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Forget the bucket and spade—at Budleigh Salterton, it’s all about the "Budleigh Buns!" These giant, smooth, oval pebbles are the beach’s signature, making it a paradise for stone-stackers and rock-pool explorers. Part of the Jurassic Coast, the beach is framed by dramatic, red Triassic cliffs that look like they’ve been toasted. It’s a wonderfully "posh and peaceful" spot where you can swap noisy arcades for the gentle crunch-crunch of your footsteps. Grab a crab sandwich, watch the colorful fishing boats, and see if you can find a pebble with a hidden fossil. It’s geology, but make it fashion!
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Beautiful walk and perfect opportunity to see wildlife
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If you plan ahead, or if you are lucky, you can walk along the beach around Orcombe point when it is low tide. And from down here you are given a different perspective of the red cliffs of the jurrasic coast. The red sandstone cliif tower above you and boulders lay strewn across the beach from landslides in decades gone by. Continue walking the beach, being wedged between the sea and cliffs, but with plenty of space not to scare you, until you reach the slope up to Sandy bay park. Lots of refreshments await you, and the firework sound of gun fire, on a day when the troops test their rifles.
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check the tide. If it's low you can walk back along the. beach. Nice cliffs with plenty of caves and boulders to explore and scramble over.
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Devon, England that marks the start of the Jurassic Coast World Heritage Site. The Geoneedle represents the rock types found along the Jurassic Coast. It was commissioned from artist Michael Fairfax and unveiled by the Prince of Wales in 2002.
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Ladram Bay is a secluded bay with a pebble beach. Among the most impressive sights along the Jurassic Coast are the sea stacks at Ladram Bay. The sandstones contain many vertical fractures and joints that were formed deep in the Earth's crust during past mountain building periods. The sea picked out these planes of weakness to form caves and natural arches that have since collapsed to produce sea stacks. The “Otter Sandstone” that forms the cliffs and sea stacks were deposited in a hot dry climates in the Triassic Period, about 220 million years ago. The stacks are composed of the same rock, which is relatively soft, but they have a harder band of sandstone at their base which prevents their rapid erosion by the sea. The striking red colour of the rock is caused by iron oxide, which indicate that the layers were formed in a desert. The presence of ripple marks and channels in the sandstones, together with the remains of the long-extinct plants, insects, fish, amphibians and reptiles, show that the desert was crossed by fertile river valleys.
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Orcombe Point is a coastal feature near Exmouth, The two beaches are part of a long strip of sand and are connected to each other below Orcombe Point at low tide. Sited high upon the hill, Orcombe Point is marked by the "Geoneedle", which was unveiled by Prince Charles, in 2002. The Geoneedle is constructed from a variety of different stones, representing both the major building stones to be found on the Jurassic Coast and the sequence of rocks that form this part of the coastline.
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With over 120 species of bird recorded on the site, the River Otter Estuary Nature Reserve is the perfect place for bird watching. The estuary covers around 33 hectares and is a designated site of Special Scientific Interest. The Otter Estuary has an intertidal habitat of mudflats and saltmarshes, making it an ideal home for a number of fish, birds and other marine life. If you have a keen eye, you can often spot things such as mud shrimps and a host of wading birds like the Ringed Plover, Curlew, Black tailed Godwit, Dunlin, Common Sandpiper, Redshank and Brent Goose. Occasionally, you’ll find rarer birds including avocet and glossy ibis. Whatever time of year you visit, you’ll spot something new depending on the birds migratory habits, so every trip is a unique experience. As well as birds, the estuary is a great place for spotting otters and is home to England’s first population of native wild beavers. Around ten years ago, beavers reappeared on the River Otter and now there is a happy and healthy colony of beavers living at the estuary. While visiting, be sure to follow these guidelines: Be considerate of other users, make way when paths are narrow and be quiet and respectful when exploring Take all your litter with you Do not approach any wildlife Keep dogs under control, especially around other people and wildlife Always bag and bin dog waste Cycling is not permitted Watersports are only for the beach, not the estuary to protect wildlife, so please launch any boards or paddles from the beach. Only use the designated areas for BBQs and picnics
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Woodbury is known for its diverse natural features, including estuaries, beaches, and significant geological formations. You can explore the Otter Estuary Nature Reserve, a vital wetland for birdwatching, or witness the dramatic red sandstone cliffs and sea stacks at Ladram Bay. The region also features the westernmost point of the Jurassic Coast at Orcombe Point.
Yes, several natural monuments around Woodbury are suitable for families. The Otter Estuary Nature Reserve offers easy walks and birdwatching opportunities. Orcombe Point and the Geoneedle provide scenic views and a chance to learn about the Jurassic Coast. Additionally, Budleigh Salterton Beach is a lovely pebble beach for coastal walks.
The natural monuments around Woodbury are rich in geological history. At Orcombe Point, you'll find the Geoneedle, which represents the geological sequence of the Jurassic Coast. Ladram Bay Sea Stacks are a prime example of red sandstone formations, dating back 220 million years to the Triassic Period, showcasing ancient desert environments and the effects of erosion on vertical fractures.
The area around Woodbury offers various outdoor activities. You can enjoy easy hikes on the East Devon Pebblebed Heaths, with routes like the 'Little plank bridge loop' from Woodbury Common. For more challenging options, consider moderate hikes such as the 'Woodbury Castle & the Pebblebeds loop'. Cycling is also popular, with routes along the Exe Estuary Trail, including easy and moderate loops from Exton or Woodbury. Find more details on these activities in the hiking guide and cycling guide for Woodbury.
Absolutely! The Otter Estuary Nature Reserve is a prime location for birdwatching. Its marshes support a significant population of wintering wildfowl and waders, including redshank, common sandpiper, curlew, and red-breasted merganser. Reed warblers, sedge warblers, and reed buntings also breed on the site.
The natural monuments around Woodbury can be enjoyed year-round, but each season offers a different experience. Spring and autumn are ideal for birdwatching at the Otter Estuary. Summer is perfect for coastal walks and enjoying the beaches. Even in winter, the dramatic coastal landscapes and estuaries offer unique beauty, though some trails might be muddy.
While the focus is on natural monuments, the region has historical connections. Orcombe Point marks the start of the Jurassic Coast, a UNESCO World Heritage Site renowned for its geological history. Nearby, Cockwood Harbour, while a natural feature, is known for its historic railway line running along the coast and charming village pubs.
Many natural monuments and trailheads in the Woodbury area offer parking facilities. For example, access points to the Otter Estuary and coastal paths often have nearby parking. It's always advisable to check specific location details before your visit, especially during peak seasons, as parking availability can vary.
Visitors particularly appreciate the diverse landscapes, from the tranquil wetlands of the Otter Estuary to the dramatic red cliffs and sea stacks of Ladram Bay. The opportunity for birdwatching, coastal walks, and experiencing the geological wonders of the Jurassic Coast are frequently highlighted as top attractions.
Yes, you'll find options for refreshments near several natural monuments. For instance, Budleigh Salterton Beach has cafes, pubs, and restaurants along its beachfront road. Similarly, the village of Cockwood, home to Cockwood Harbour, boasts idyllic pubs like The Ship Inn and The Anchor Inn.
Many natural areas and coastal paths around Woodbury are dog-friendly, especially if kept on a lead. However, specific rules can apply to nature reserves or protected areas, particularly during nesting seasons for birds. It's best to check local signage or specific guidelines for each natural monument, such as the Otter Estuary Nature Reserve, to ensure responsible visiting with your pet.


Extend your search for the best caves by checking out these guides of the top ones around Woodbury: