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2 Middlewood

Entered via a courtyard, former market garden on north facing slope. Steep, uneven paths. View over the Exe. Food production and wildlife garden. Self-sufficiency ethos; greenhouse, polytunnel, fruit cage, raised vegetable beds, wild area, ponds, beehive. Productive fruit bushes and trees inc exotics. Steep access path. Not wheelchair accessible. Called 'inspirational' by visitors.

Owner Info

  • Cliff & Chris Curd
2 Middlewood
2 Middlewood
2 Middlewood
2 Middlewood
2 Middlewood
2 Middlewood
2 Middlewood
2 Middlewood
2 Middlewood
2 Middlewood
2 Middlewood
2 Middlewood
2 Middlewood
2 Middlewood

About 2 Middlewood

Work started on this abandoned and overgrown market garden in 2005 with the aim of being as self- sufficient as possible in fruit and veg. It is entered via a courtyard which contains some citrus pots, fig trees, an avocado as well as other planting. The conservatory usually houses homegrown pineapples. The courtyard leads to steps or a steep slope to enter the main garden, from which there are views over the Exe estuary and towards the hills at Mamhead. Challenges include a north-facing slope which does not get the sun for two months of the year, having no vehicle access to take up materials, and having no level ground on which to build structures. We built a 24′ Victorian type greenhouse which is set up for fruit growing and contains grapes, peaches and nectarines. Adjacent is a 48′ long polytunnel which is used mainly for vegetable growing. Large fruit cage with a wide range of soft fruit and cherry trees. Raised vegetable beds. Fruit trees grown as cordons and espaliers. The last third of the garden, accessed via a steep grassy slope, was completely overgrown and clogged with brambles. As well as two ponds and being managed for wildlife, it is surrounded with native hedgerow planting and contains mulberry, medlar, almond, walnut, kiwi, fig and more apple varieties. This is a garden to interest those who want to grow food. There are some flower beds, mostly planted with insects in mind. Eco beehive and owl box in a large oak tree. Large chicken run. Wildlife pond and deeper pond containing freshwater fish. Only the courtyard is accessible to those with mobility challenges.

Location details

2 Middlewood,
Exeter,
Devon,
EX6 8RN

Directions to 2 Middlewood
A379 from Dawlish, R at Cofton Cross, passing Cofton Holidays. Middlewood ½m on R. A379 from Exeter, turn L at Cockwood Harbour. Turn R & pass The Ship. Park on Church Rd, not in Middlewood.

2 Middlewood openings

For this open day you need to pre-book your ticket in advance. To book tickets please click on the book button below.

Refreshments Light refreshments.
Admission Adult: £6.00
Child: Free
Opening times 13:00-17:00

For this open day you need to pre-book your ticket in advance. To book tickets please click on the book button below.

Refreshments Light refreshments.
Admission Adult: £6.00
Child: Free
Opening times 13:00-17:00

For this open day you need to pre-book your ticket in advance. To book tickets please click on the book button below.

Refreshments Light refreshments.
Admission Adult: £6.00
Child: Free
Opening times 13:00-17:00

For this open day you need to pre-book your ticket in advance. To book tickets please click on the book button below.

Refreshments Light refreshments.
Admission Adult: £6.00
Child: Free
Opening times 13:00-17:00

Accessibility

  • No wheelchair access due to the nature of the land.
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FAQs

Payment is by cash only. Please get in touch with the owners for more details.

Sorry, there is no available parking for coaches at 2 Middlewood at this time.

Yes, dogs are welcome at 2 Middlewood. Please keep the dogs on fixed short leads in the garden and keep in mind that you are responsible for controlling the dog’s behaviour. For any specific rules please ask the owners.

Yes, there are various plants offerred for sale at 2 Middlewood, please enquire with the owners for more details.

Sorry, 2 Middlewood does not yet accommodate wheelchair users.

Yes. 2 Middlewood seeks to offer a sustainable refuge for nearby fauna and wildlife. These sanctuaries host diverse habitats supporting indigenous flora and fauna and nurturing local biodiversity.