Free parking at Holsworthy Wood – perfect for forest walks, wildlife spotting & dog-friendly trails just off the A388.
🚗 Type: Free Public Forest Car Park
🏛️ Jurisdiction: Forestry England
🕒 Open: Dawn–Dusk daily (approx. 06:00–20:00 in summer; 07:00–17:00 in winter)
🌟 Rating: 4.7/5 (visitor reviews)
💰 Pricing & Permits
Cost: Free for all users
Permits: Not required
📊 Capacity & Physical Features
| Feature | Detail |
|---|---|
| Total Bays | Approximately 20 unmarked gravel bays |
| Surface | Compacted gravel (may rut or puddle after heavy rain) |
| Lighting | None—daylight use only |
| Security | Occasional Forestry England ranger patrols; no CCTV |
| Height Limit | None (overnight parking not permitted) |
♿ Accessibility
Level Access: Gravel bays nearest trailhead offer level access to waymarked paths
Blue Badge: Holders may park free—no designated bays but level parking close to entrance
Drop-Off: Informal layby at entrance gate for quick unloading
🔌 EV Infrastructure
On-Site Charging: None
Nearest Options:
Tesco Holsworthy (EX22 6QR) – 2×7 kW Pod Point (~3 mi / 8 min drive)
Bude Tesco Extra (EX23 8PS) – 4×7 kW Pod Point (~11 mi / 20 min drive)
📅 Peak Times & Occupancy
| Timeframe | Occupancy | Typical Users |
|---|---|---|
| Weekday Mornings | ~25 % | Dog walkers & local joggers |
| Weekday Afternoons | ~20 % | Families & nature enthusiasts |
| Weekends (10:00–14:00) | ~70 % | Weekend day-trippers & cyclists |
| Evenings (pre-close) | ~10 % | Sunset photographers |
Pro Tip: Arrive before 10:00 on Saturdays to secure a bay nearest the main trailhead.
🚶 Walkability Score
| Destination | Walk Time | Key Benefit |
|---|---|---|
| Circuit Moor Loop | On-site | 2 km waymarked woodland circuit |
| Northdown Hill Viewpoint | 10 min | Panoramic views of Tamar Valley |
| Rushton Spencer Village Pub | 3 min | Post-walk refreshments at local inn |
| Goyt Valley Trailhead | 5 min | Start of extended riverside walk |
⚠️ Important Notices
Overnight Parking: Not permitted—site gates locked at dusk
Surface Warning: Gravel may become slippery or muddy after rain; drive & alight with care
Mobile Signal: Limited coverage—download offline maps if needed
📌 Expert Tips
Trail Combo: Park here then follow the Goyt Valley Trail for a full-day hike.
Picnic Prep: Bring a folding seat or mat—benches are limited at the viewpoint.
Badge Ease: Blue Badge holders enjoy level parking close to entrance—no need for marked bays.
🔮 Future Developments
2025: Forestry England planning wayfinding signage enhancements.
2026+: Feasibility study for a single solar-powered EV charge post at nearby Cookworthy Woods.