Top 5 Lakes around Mary Tavy

For tranquil walks, Meldon Reservoir offers a path running its full length, suitable for family visits. Around Meldon Quarry Lake, you'll find a peaceful landscape with opportunities for walking and cycling. The wider Dartmoor area, including around Burrator Reservoir and Meldon Reservoir, features networks of off-road footpaths and bridleways. You can also explore various running and cycling routes in the area; for more details, check out the Running Trails around Mary Tavy and Cycling around Mary Tavy guides.

Yes, Meldon Reservoir is considered family-friendly, with a path that runs the entire length of the reservoir. Burrator Reservoir also offers easy access for walks and runs around its perimeter, making it suitable for families. For a more adventurous family outing, Longtimber Tor/Pool on the River Tavy is described as a "fabulous place for kids and adults alike" for swimming and picnicking.

The River Tavy and its cleaves are renowned for wild swimming. Specific spots include Tavy Cleave, featuring Staircase Pool and Devil's Kitchen with waterfalls and deep pools. Longtimber Tor/Pool on the River Tavy near Peter Tavy is another deep pool ideal for swimming and jumping off rocks. Foggintor Quarry Lake (North Side) is also a popular spot for swimming, known for its clear, cold water. However, please note that swimming is not permitted at Meldon Reservoir or Meldon Quarry Lake.

The area around Mary Tavy, situated on the western edge of Dartmoor National Park, is rich in natural beauty. You'll find dramatic scenery, including spectacular cleaves with waterfalls and pools along the River Tavy. Reservoirs like Burrator and Meldon offer tranquil waters surrounded by open moorland, dramatic tors, and picturesque views. The landscape also features unique rock formations, ancient trees, and diverse birdlife, especially at Meldon Reservoir.

Yes, the area has significant historical interest. Tavy Cleave is near the prehistoric village of Watern Oke. Longtimber Tor/Pool is close to the historical Devon Great Consols Copper Mine. Foggintor Quarry Lake (North Side) has archaeological history and is connected to the granite and gears path, leading to sites like Kings Tor and Sweltor Quarry. Meldon Quarry Lake itself is formed within an old quarry with a rich industrial heritage, and Meldon Reservoir is a Scheduled Monument. The Granite Way, which crosses the impressive Meldon Viaduct, also offers historical context.

The lakes and wild swimming spots can be enjoyed throughout the warmer months for swimming and outdoor activities. However, the area's natural beauty, including the moorlands and reservoirs, offers scenic walks and views year-round. Be prepared for varied weather conditions, as Dartmoor can be unpredictable. For wild swimming, summer offers the most comfortable water temperatures, though the water remains cold.

Many trails and outdoor areas around the lakes in Dartmoor National Park are dog-friendly. However, it's essential to keep dogs under control, especially around livestock and ground-nesting birds, and to follow the Countryside Code. Specific rules may apply to certain areas, such as nature reserves or private land. Always check local signage for any restrictions.

Beyond walking and swimming, the area offers a variety of outdoor activities. You can enjoy cycling around reservoirs like Burrator, or explore the network of off-road tracks around Meldon Reservoir. The wider region provides excellent opportunities for mountain biking, with several trails detailed in the MTB Trails around Mary Tavy guide. Fishing is also permitted at Meldon Reservoir with a purchased permit, particularly for natural brown trout.

While many trails in Dartmoor can be rugged, some areas offer more accessible options. The path running the full length of Meldon Reservoir is generally suitable for a wider range of visitors. Burrator Reservoir also has a road circling it, providing relatively easy access for enjoying the views. For specific accessibility information, it's always best to check with local visitor centers or official websites.

Visitors frequently praise the dramatic scenery and the exhilarating experience of wild swimming in natural pools like those in Tavy Cleave. The tranquility and picturesque views of reservoirs such as Burrator and Meldon Reservoir are also highly valued. Many appreciate the diverse opportunities for outdoor activities, from peaceful walks and cycling to exploring the unique industrial heritage of sites like Meldon Quarry Lake and the archaeological history of Foggintor Quarry Lake (North Side).

Yes, parking is generally available at popular lake and reservoir locations. For instance, there is parking at the dam wall of Meldon Reservoir. Burrator Reservoir also has various viewing points and parking areas around its perimeter. For specific wild swimming spots or less-developed areas, parking might be more limited, so it's advisable to plan ahead.

While Mary Tavy itself has local amenities, specific pubs or cafes directly adjacent to every lake might be limited due to their natural or remote settings. However, you will find options in nearby villages and towns. For example, the area around Burrator Reservoir is relatively close to communities where you can find refreshments. It's a good idea to check local listings for pubs and cafes in villages like Peter Tavy or Tavistock before your visit.