The Knapp
Report by Trip Organiser, Sue Cox
A group of 12 met at The Knowle car park in the sunshine on Thursday 24 September, where we were introduced to Malcolm Seymour – our guide for the morning. A Sidmouth U3A Nature Group leader, member of the British Trust for Ornithology (BTO) and the Society of Friends who maintain and care for the grounds of Sidmouth Cemetery, Malcolm’s knowledge of local wildlife is outstanding. On hand to share information and answer any of the group’s questions, he explained that observing wildlife recorded in surveys here was highly dependent on the season and weather conditions, but nevertheless there should be plenty to see and photograph.
Paul – one of the trip organisers – explained the plan for our nature walk. Unfortunately, due to a knee injury, he was not able to join us himself. Our intention was for us all to meet back at around 12.15 for refreshments at a local cafe.
As we prepared to set off, we welcomed two new members to the Club and OSIG, and our focus was quickly distracted by the presence of a Buzzard, which flew down from a nearby tree. With cameras at the ready, some tried to get a shot before it flew off into The Knowle.
Our first port of call was the Knapp Nature Pond, where Malcolm gave us the history of the site and descriptions of the various plants, fruit trees and pond life. It was sad to hear that roe deer were prone to eating some of the plants around the pond! We then ventured into the Knapp Nature Reserve, wandering along paths, through the orchard and woodland areas, learning much from Malcolm about the varieties of grasses, ferns, birds, nettles, trees, lichen, etc. It was interesting to hear the history of The Knapp and learn that in the 1960s and 70s, sheep still grazed there.
Leaving the wooded area, we entered through the gate into Sidmouth Burial Ground, which is divided into new and old areas. Again, Malcolm was able to name famous people buried here and share a list from a survey he carried out on 16 September 2026, recording a number of flowers, insects and butterflies. There was plenty to photograph in this area, which was particularly atmospheric in the overgrown old cemetery section.
With many photo opportunities and the chance to learn more about a fabulous nature reserve right on our doorstep, everyone agreed that they would be returning in the future.
It was amazing to learn so much about The Knapp and, as we thanked Malcolm for being an excellent guide, the majority of the group retired to The Buzz café on Alexandria Industrial Estate for a well-earned coffee and a chat.
Sidmouth Nature - The Knapp Nature Pond https://www.sidmouth-nature.uk/wild-places/the-knapp
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