The Priory at Abbotskerswell

Blackbird
Song Thrush
Mistle Thrush
Robin
House Sparrow
Dunnock
Starling
Nuthatch
Tree Creeper
Wren
Chaffinch
Greenfinch
Goldfinch
Bullfinch
Pied Wagtail
Stock Dove
Wood Pigeon
Collared Dove
Carrion Crow
Jay
Jackdaw
Rook
Magpie
Great Tit
Blue Tit
Coal Tit

The Priory is situated in six acres of grounds, overlooking rolling hills and green pastures. The paddock, so called as it had been used to house a horse and donkey, had been a forsaken piece of ground. Gently sloping from the old drive, with its avenue of mature trees, down to some ancient apple trees, it is wonderful in the spring with their blossom and in the autumn with an abundance of apples.

The growth of the paddock changes from year to year, but we are fostering the ground to produce wild flowers and grasses. Last year 56 different varieties were noted. In the spring there is an abundance of primroses, violets and daffodils. In the early summer we have daisies, campion, red and white clover and many other varieties producing nectar for butterflies and bees.

The area is approached through the garden and woodland, containing many mature trees, giving a wild habitat for many types of birds. The grounds are enclosed on three sides by high stone-built walls, so are secluded and private. There are seats where residents may enjoy the peace and quiet of this lovely area.

Elizabeth Palmer

Long Tailed Tit
Blackcap
Chiffchaff
Willow Warbler
Garden Warbler
Swallow
House Martin
Swift
Spotted Flycatcher
Green Woodpecker
Greater Spotted Woodpecker
Siskin
Yellow Hammer
Kestrel
Sparrow Hawk
Peregrine Falcon
Buzzard
Raven
Herring Gull
Black-headed Gull
Cuckoo
Pheasant
Tawny Owl
Barn Owl