Top 4 Lakes around Whitchurch
Best lakes around Whitchurch offer diverse natural and man-made water features for exploration. The area provides opportunities for outdoor activities, with various lakes and reservoirs contributing to the landscape. These locations are known for their natural beauty and historical significance. The region's topography includes elevated viewpoints and accessible trails around water bodies.
Best lakes around Whitchurch
- The most popular lakes is Foggintor Quarry Lake (North Side), a lake that is a popular spot for walkers and wild campers. The deep, clear water is suitable for swimming, and the area is known for its archaeological history and sunset views.
- Another must-see spot is Crazywell Pool, a hidden pool suitable for wild swimming. This location is appreciated for its natural setting and offers a unique outdoor experience.
- Visitors also love Sheepstor Dam, a man-made monument that forms part of Burrator Reservoir. This area is popular with walkers, offering delightful and accessible routes around the reservoir edge.
- Whitchurch is known for its natural lakes, reservoirs, and quarry lakes. The region offers a variety of water bodies, from those suitable for swimming to those with historical significance and scenic trails.
- The lakes around Whitchurch are appreciated by the komoot community, with over 140 upvotes and 90 photos shared by visitors.
Last updated: May 17, 2026
Foggintor Quarry Lake (North Side)
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Burrator Reservoir and Dam
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Burrator Discovery Centre
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The centre is open from 10am to 4pm daily, except for Saturdays and alternate Thursdays. You can also buy permits for fishing at Burrator Reservoir, which is one of the most tranquil and picturesque natural angling venues in the South West. The reservoir is surrounded by woodlands, wetlands and moorlands, and offers ample walks and views.
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Crazywell Pool
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Sheepstor Dam
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This is a popular area with walkers. The route around the reservoir edge is delightful and easily accessible.
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Tips from the Community
The path along the water is a bit challenging. You have to climb at this point....
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This is a place to explore for sure. Wild camping allowed as long you respect the rules.
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Very cool but currently not permitted to wild camp. Still a fantastic place for a dip!
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Burrator Discovery Centre is a visitor centre located near Burrator Reservoir, on the edge of Dartmoor National Park. It opened in 2014 as part of the Burrator Historic and Natural Environment project. The centre offers exhibitions and displays about Burrator’s history, wildlife and culture. You can see spoken history, an interactive screen and a children’s discovery zone. You can also explore the conservation garden, which features a totem pole and a range of plants found on Dartmoor. The centre is open from 10am to 4pm daily, except for Saturdays and alternate Thursdays. You can also buy permits for fishing at Burrator Reservoir, which is one of the most tranquil and picturesque natural angling venues in the South West. The reservoir is surrounded by woodlands, wetlands and moorlands, and offers ample walks and views.
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This is a tranquil little place, excellent for a walk, run or cycle. Beautiful scenery with lots of viewing points. Surrounded by woodland, it's often more sheltered here than on the high moor. A road runs round the reservoir, so if you are walking, be aware of traffic.
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Burrator Dam was built in 1898. According to information boards in the nearby Burrator Discovery Centre, the dam is 23.4m/77ft high and 114m/375ft wide and is built from granite and concrete.
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Frequently Asked Questions
What are the best lakes for wild swimming around Whitchurch?
For wild swimming, Foggintor Quarry Lake (North Side) is a brilliant spot with deep, clear water. It's popular on hot days. Another excellent option is Crazywell Pool, a hidden deep pool known as one of the finest places for a wild swim.
Are there family-friendly lakes around Whitchurch?
Yes, Sheepstor Dam, which is part of Burrator Reservoir, is a popular area with walkers and offers delightful, easily accessible routes around the reservoir edge, making it suitable for families. The wider Burrator Reservoir area is tranquil and excellent for walks or cycles with beautiful scenery.
What kind of natural features can I expect to see around the lakes?
The lakes offer diverse natural beauty. You can find stunning viewpoints, such as the View from Sharpitor to Burrator Reservoir. Areas like Crazywell Pool are appreciated for their natural setting, while Foggintor Quarry Lake offers impressive archaeological history alongside its natural appeal.
Are there good walking trails near the lakes around Whitchurch?
Yes, there are many walking opportunities. The area around Burrator Reservoir offers tranquil walks, runs, or cycles with beautiful scenery. Foggintor Quarry Lake is also a popular spot for walkers. For more structured routes, you can explore running trails around Whitchurch, including routes like 'Pew Tor – Windy Post Granite Cross loop' or 'Plaster Down Common loop'. Find more details on the Running Trails around Whitchurch guide.
What outdoor activities can I do near these lakes besides swimming and walking?
Beyond swimming and walking, the area offers cycling and gravel biking. Burrator Reservoir has a quiet road around it, ideal for cycling. You can find various cycling routes, such as the 'Dartmoor Way Cycle Loop' or 'Grenofen Tunnel – Gem Bridge loop', in the Cycling around Whitchurch guide. For gravel biking, routes like 'Granite & Gears: Princetown & Burrator Loop' are available in the Gravel biking around Whitchurch guide.
What do visitors enjoy most about the lakes around Whitchurch?
Visitors particularly enjoy the opportunities for wild swimming in clear, deep waters like those at Foggintor Quarry Lake and Crazywell Pool. The tranquil scenery and accessible routes around Burrator Reservoir are also highly appreciated for walking, running, and cycling. The area is also noted for its impressive archaeological history and beautiful sunset views.
Are there any historical or archaeological sites near the lakes?
Yes, Foggintor Quarry Lake (North Side) is known for its impressive archaeological history. Additionally, Sheepstor Dam is a man-made monument built in 1894 as part of Burrator Reservoir, providing a historical context to the landscape.
What is the best time to visit the lakes around Whitchurch?
While specific times aren't always mentioned, the deep, clear water at Foggintor Quarry Lake is particularly amazing for a dip on a hot day. Sunset views are also highlighted as a draw in the summer months. Generally, warmer months are ideal for water activities, while the tranquil settings are enjoyable year-round for walks.
Are there any less crowded lake options for a peaceful visit?
While Foggintor Quarry Lake can be busy, especially in warmer months and weekends, the wider Burrator Reservoir area is described as a tranquil place. Exploring the various smaller unsealed tracks and gravel trails around Burrator can offer a more secluded experience.
Can I find viewpoints with scenic vistas of the lakes?
Absolutely. The View from Sharpitor to Burrator Reservoir offers a stunning perspective of the water body. Many areas around Burrator Reservoir also provide beautiful scenery with numerous viewing points along its perimeter.
What should I consider for safety when wild swimming in the lakes?
When wild swimming in spots like Crazywell Pool, it's important to consider safety first. The water in places like Foggintor Quarry Lake can be deep and cold, even on hot days. Always be aware of your surroundings and any local guidelines.
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