Join us for a special evening of presentation and celebration as we commemorate our 60th Anniversary at the East Devon National Landscape Partnership Annual Meeting.
As always, we eagerly anticipate uniting National Landscape Partnership members and Ambassadors, our valued local advocates, communities and East Devon businesses in support of our outstanding area of natural beauty.
CELEBRATING 60 YEARS
This year’s event will include our customary annual review of East Devon National Landscape and partnership projects, but with a special touch as we celebrate our 60th anniversary.
Marking this remarkable milestone, we’ll be sharing elements of our recent exhibition from local heritage groups, coupled with the public launch of our creative nature-connection initiative.
We will also be welcoming Professor Michael Winter OBE, as our keynote speaker to examine our cherished landscapes in the context of food and energy security and the biodiversity challenge.
The evening will unfold against the backdrop of Woodbury Park, a venue nestled in one of our most beloved local landscapes – the Pebblebed Heaths – and neighbour to the historic Woodbury Castle.
Prior to the event, a guided walk, led by the Pebblebed Heaths Conservation Trust and Clinton Devon Estate team, will offer a unique chance to visit the landscape and learn more about the efforts preserving its natural wonders.
Subject to weather conditions, we have 30 places for National Landscape event attendees to enjoy a guided walk across the Pebblebed Heath.
Benefit from the insights of the Pebblebed Heaths Conservation Trust and Clinton Devon Estate teams. The walk, lasting approx. 1.5 hours, will conclude about 30 minutes before the main event, ensuring time for any required footwear/clothing adjustments. The route is comfortably easy, suitable for all skill levels.
If you wish to take part in the walk, please select the ‘National Landscape Annual Event ticket + Guided Walk’ ticket type when booking.
All attendees are invited to enjoy a complimentary buffet, before moving on to the core of the evening’s programme:
A Year in Review
Following an introduction from East Devon National Landscape Chair Alistair Handyside, National Landscape Manager Chris Woodruff will review the work of the National Landscape Partnership over the last year and the projects we have supported.
60 Years of East Devon National Landscape
A glance back over the last six decades and the partnerships, dedicated individuals, and transformative projects that have been the driving force behind the East Devon Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty’s remarkable journey.
The Biodiversity Challenge
We are honored to introduce Professor Michael Winter OBE, Director of the Centre for Rural Policy Research at the University of Exeter, whose keynote speech will consider the complex interplay of cherished landscapes, food and energy security and the biodiversity challenge.
As Chair of the Devon Local Nature Partnership, his expertise uniquely bridges the national and local perspectives, providing a comprehensive understanding of the challenges at hand.
The Acland Award
Finally, we will round off the evening with a celebration of exceptional volunteer contributions, with the presentation of this year’s Acland Award – our annual commendation of innovative and meaningful activity that enhances, conserves and promotes the National Landscape.
Event Schedule*
| 16:00 | Pebblebed Heath Guided walk (optional, weather permitting) |
| 18:00 | Registration, refreshments & complimentary light buffet |
| 19:15 | Welcome & A Year in Review from the National Landscape Partnership |
| 19:45 | 60 Years of Protected Landscape in East Devon |
| 20:00 | Cherished Landscapes – Food and energy security and the biodiversity challenge – Prof. Michael Winter OBE |
| 20:40 | Acland Award Presentation |
| 20:55 | Final summary & departure |
| 21:00 | End |
| Â | *Approximate timings |
BOOK NOW
We hope you are able to come along and enjoy an informal evening, celebrating our East Devon National Landscape, learning from our speakers and making connections with others.
Complete the form (right) to register your places or click here.
*Places are limited and available on a first-come-first-served basis. Please register to confirm your attendance ASAP and avoid disappointment.
More to Explore
Our National Landscape Projects
We lead, partner and support projects that focus on a wide range of themes, including landscape and heritage, environmental quality and climate, biodiversity, recreation and tourism.
Outdoors & Active
Whether you prefer walking, cycling, running or playing, everyone feels happier and healthier when they spend time in nature being more active.
East Devon Way
Discover the hidden gems of East Devon and explore this much loved walking route that links 40 miles of public footpaths, trails and bridleways.