Top 20 Lakes in Devon

Devon offers numerous lakes with excellent walking opportunities. Meldon Reservoir, for instance, features a path running its full length, ideal for family walks. For a more rugged experience, Burrator Reservoir, nestled within Dartmoor National Park, provides scenic moorland walks. You can also explore the extensive footpaths and cycle tracks around Roadford Lake, suitable for all ages and abilities.

Yes, for those seeking a refreshing dip, Foggintor Quarry Lake (North Side) on Dartmoor offers clear, albeit cold, water ideal for swimming. It's a popular spot, often shared with climbers on the rocks.

Devon has several excellent fishing lakes. Clawford Lakes is a resort with 17 lakes, particularly known for carp fishing. Burrator Reservoir is popular for trout and salmon fishing, while Venford Reservoir, also in Dartmoor National Park, is regularly stocked with rainbow and brown trout. For a quieter angling experience, Trenchford Reservoir is a good choice, and Fernworthy Reservoir offers coarse fishing opportunities.

Roadford Lake is a fantastic family destination, offering activities like stand-up paddleboarding, kayaking, sailing, archery, and a high ropes course. It also has extensive footpaths and cycle tracks. Meldon Reservoir is another great option for family walks with its accessible path along the reservoir.

Many lakes in Devon welcome dogs. Roadford Lake is dog-friendly, though dogs must be on a lead and out of the water. Clawford Lakes also caters to dogs with dedicated paths and even a dog-dipping lake, making it a great option for pet owners.

Devon's lakes are havens for wildlife. Roadford Lake is home to otters, bats, dormice, marsh fritillary butterflies, and various bird species. Meldon Reservoir is known for its excellent bird life. Kennick Reservoir is particularly notable for its birdlife, including both little egrets and great white egrets. Isley Marsh Nature Reserve is an important haven for various bird species, including teal, curlew, and spoonbills.

Yes, Haytor Quarry Pond with Water Lilies is a unique spot within an old quarry, showcasing Dartmoor's industrial past and part of a Site of Special Scientific Interest. Foggintor Quarry Lake (North Side) is another quarry lake with historical context, popular for its clear waters and surrounding climbing rocks.

Beyond walking, you can find various outdoor activities. For mountain biking, explore routes like the 'Granite & Gears: Princetown and Burrator Loop' or trails in Haldon Forest. You can find more details on these and other MTB routes in the MTB Trails in Devon guide. Hiking options include the 'Red Lake & Avon Dam loop from Ivybridge' and various trails in Dartmoor National Park, detailed in the Hiking in Devon guide.

For a more tranquil experience, Meldon Reservoir offers peace and quiet with excellent bird life. Trenchford Reservoir is another quieter option, particularly favored by anglers seeking solitude. Venford Reservoir also provides a peaceful environment within Dartmoor National Park.

Kennick Reservoir provides public footpaths and grassy banks that make fantastic picnic spots. Many reservoirs, including Avon Dam Reservoir and Meldon Reservoir, offer scenic viewpoints with beautiful natural surroundings perfect for enjoying a packed lunch.

Yes, some lake destinations offer amenities. Roadford Lake has a cafe and gift shop on-site, with camping available. Clawford Lakes is a resort with a Lake Spa, swimming pool, and various accommodation options ranging from floating lodges to luxury cocoons and lodges with private hot tubs.

Slapton Ley is a significant freshwater lagoon in Devon. It is particularly known for its diverse fish species and beautiful natural surroundings, making it a popular spot for nature observation and peaceful walks.