Dartmoor National Park in Devon, England, hosts a mystical and otherworldly forest. Wistman’s Wood, one of Britain’s highest-altitude oak woodlands, is what remains of the ancient wildwood that once covered much of Dartmoor’s landscape thousands of years ago. The woodland occupies a steep-sided valley near Two Bridges, situated at an elevation of approximately 380-410 meters above sea level. The name “Wistman’s” is believed to derive from the Saxon word “wisht,” meaning eerie, uncanny, or haunted – a fitting description for the grove.
What makes Wistman’s Wood truly extraordinary is its distinctive appearance and ecological composition. The forest is dominated by stunted oak trees (Quercus robur), most of which stand no taller than 7.5 meters (25 feet). These gnarled and twisted oaks have evolved to survive Dartmoor’s harsh conditions, with their stunted growth being a direct response to the challenging environment of high winds, poor soil, and extreme weather.
The forest floor presents an equally remarkable sight. Massive granite boulders, known locally as “clatter,” are strewn across the ground, creating a complex maze of mini-caverns and crevices. These rocks are completely covered in thick carpets of over 100 different species of moss and lichens. The boulders also serve a crucial purpose: they protect the oak trees’ roots from grazing animals and provide shelter for a diverse array of wildlife.
What visitors find most striking about Wistman’s Wood is how the oak trees have adapted to grow around and between these granite boulders. Their twisted branches, draped in hanging mosses and lichens, create an intricate canopy. This distinctive appearance has led many to describe the wood as “mysterious,” “primeval,” or even “haunted,” contributing to numerous local legends and folklore.
Wistman’s Wood is one of the best examples of high-altitude oak woodland in Britain and serves as a vital habitat for numerous rare species. The wood hosts an exceptional variety of lichens, with over 120 species recorded, including several that are nationally rare. The granite boulders provide perfect conditions for a diverse community of bryophytes, while the woods support various birds, including redstarts and pied flycatchers.
Accessibility to Wistman’s Wood is relatively straightforward, though it requires some effort. Visitors can park at the Two Bridges Hotel car park and follow a well-marked footpath that leads to the wood, approximately one mile away. The walk is moderate in difficulty, crossing typical Dartmoor terrain of grass and rocks. However, once inside the wood, navigation becomes more challenging due to the boulder-strewn ground. Visitors are strongly advised to stick to the paths to protect the delicate ecosystem.
The wood’s vulnerability is a growing concern in the face of climate change and increased visitor pressure. The ancient oaks are particularly susceptible to changes in temperature and rainfall patterns, while the delicate moss and lichen communities can be easily damaged by trampling. The isolated nature of the wood also makes it vulnerable to genetic isolation, potentially limiting its ability to adapt to environmental changes.
Fortunately, Wistman’s Wood enjoys several layers of protection. It has been designated as a Site of Special Scientific Interest (SSSI) since 1964, and it falls within the boundaries of Dartmoor National Park. The wood is also recognized as a National Nature Reserve, managed by Natural England, to ensure its preservation while allowing controlled public access for education and enjoyment.