About the event

Join us for the inaugural tree planting event at Bowden Pillars, situated on the outskirts of Totnes in South Devon. Thanks to a long-term partnership with Aviva, Devon Wildlife Trust are beginning the creation of an Atlantic Rainforest, also known as Temperate Rainforest right here in Devon.

This 30-hectare (75-acre) site, with stunning views of South Devon and Dartmoor, will be transformed as Devon Wildlife Trust plants native trees across two-thirds of the land, establishing a new rainforest that will one day thrive with wildlife. We invite you, along with friends and family, to mark the beginning of this journey by helping plant the first of thousands of trees—a gift to future generations.

A rainforest takes about 100 years to fully mature, so we’re also asking participants to bring messages, wishes, or dreams for the future, some of which will be included in a time capsule to be discovered by generations to come.

This unique forest will host tree species like sessile oak, birch, rowan, holly, alder, willow, and hazel. It will provide a haven for animals like stoats and pine martens, as well as rare birds such as wood warblers, redstarts, and pied flycatchers. The damp conditions will support an abundance of mosses, liverworts, lichens, and ferns – many of which grow on the trees or cover boulders. These conditions are also ideal for fungi, including globally rare species like hazel gloves fungus.

Join us in creating a legacy for the land—come plant a tree and be part of the rainforest’s first chapter.

Please note there is no parking on site. If driving, please park in Totnes public car parks and walk to Fishchowter's Lane TQ9 5EX which will lead you to the event site (about a 10 - 15 minute walk).

This event will be filmed and the footage will be used by national media, DWT marketing purposes including website and social media and for Bowden Pillars Future. 

Dress for the weather - sturdy footwear and please bring your own refreshments if you wish. No toilet facilities on site (nearest are in Totnes).

Please do not bring your own trees to plant.