4.5
(6)
63
hikers
8
hikes
Hiking around Roadford Lake offers access to one of the largest inland waters in the South West, set within the picturesque Wolf Valley. The area is characterized by a diverse landscape, including Culm Grasslands, woodlands, old pastures, and orchards. Trails wind along the water's edge and through peaceful forests, with the tors of Dartmoor providing a distant backdrop. This varied terrain supports a rich array of flora and fauna, making it a destination for nature observation.
Last updated: July 1, 2026
4.0
(1)
25
hikers
Easy hike. Great for any fitness level. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
3
hikers
4.14km
01:08
70m
70m
Easy hike. Great for any fitness level. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
1
hikers
3.95km
01:06
80m
80m
Easy hike. Great for any fitness level. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
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Roadford Lake is a reservoir fed by the river Wolf. It's the largest area of water in the south-west and is used to supply drinking water for north and South Devon. As a runner there isn't a trail that allows you to circumnavigate the lake, but you can run along the northeastern shore.
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Roadford Lake is set just outside Dartmoor National Park so is the perfect place for a rolling ride with a backdrop of dramatic tors and hills. You can tur your hand at plenty of watersports here including sailing, kayaking, fishing and paddleboarding. For further details please see the website https://www.swlakestrust.org.uk/pages/site/activities/category/roadford-lake
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Picturesque freshwater lake. The largest freshwater lake in the Southwest. The lake has a large activity centre. Canoeing, fishing, archery and windsurfing amongst others. The centre also has a fantastic cafe serving quality freshly prepared food and drink.
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There are two fords next to each other just outside of Crandford, on Crandford Brook. Found on a gravel byway, the stone footbridge across one has seen people crossing the brook for well over a hundred years. The brook is always small but the water level does go up and down depending on recent rainfall so be mindful if walking after heavy weather as one of the fords doesn't have a bridge.
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Roadford Lake offers a selection of easy hiking trails. This guide features 3 easy routes, with a total of 8 routes available in the area for various difficulty levels.
The easy trails at Roadford Lake are characterized by their diverse natural settings. You'll find paths winding through peaceful woodlands, along the water's edge, and across old pastures and orchards. The picturesque Wolf Valley setting, with distant views of Dartmoor's tors, adds to the scenic appeal.
Yes, many of the easy trails around Roadford Lake are circular, allowing you to start and end at the same point. For example, the Roadford Reservoir – Upper Tamar Lake Café loop from Lakeside Cafe is an easy 4.1 km circular route offering tranquil lakeside views. Another option is the Roadford Lake loop from Germansweek, which explores varied habitats.
Absolutely. Roadford Lake is very family-friendly. The easy trails are generally well-maintained and offer varied scenery to keep children engaged. There's also a children's play area at the activity centre, and the café provides a convenient stop for refreshments.
Yes, dogs are welcome on leads throughout the Roadford Lake area. There is also an enclosed dog exercise area where your canine companion can run freely.
Roadford Lake offers accessible options. Some routes, like a 30-minute brisk walk from the café to a sundial, are wheelchair accessible. An all-terrain mobility scooter, known as 'The Tramper,' is also available for hire to expand accessibility on certain trails.
The diverse habitats around Roadford Lake support a rich array of wildlife. Hikers often spot various birds, including teal and Canada geese, as well as birds of prey. Mammals like badgers, bats, red deer, and roe deer are also present. Bird hides are strategically placed for optimal wildlife observation.
Roadford Lake has dedicated parking facilities, typically located near the main activity centre and café, providing convenient access to the trail network. Specific access points for routes like the Hiking loop from Bridestowe may have local parking options.
Yes, Roadford Lake features a café at its activity centre, offering locally sourced food and drinks with scenic lake views. This makes it a perfect spot to refuel before or after your easy hike.
Roadford Lake is enjoyable year-round, with each season offering a different experience. Spring brings new growth and bird activity, summer provides pleasant weather for lakeside strolls, autumn showcases vibrant foliage, and winter offers tranquil, crisp walks. The well-maintained paths make it accessible in most conditions.
The komoot community highly rates the trails around Roadford Lake, with an average score of 4.3 stars. Reviewers often praise the tranquil lakeside paths, the peaceful woodlands, and the diverse natural habitats that make each walk unique and engaging.
Yes, as you explore the easy trails, you can discover features such as a sundial, a cob shelter, and several bird hides, which are excellent for wildlife viewing. These points add interest to your walk and offer opportunities for short breaks.


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