Best attractions and places to see around Stockland, Devon, include a variety of natural reserves, historical sites, and tranquil lakes. This region, situated near the Blackdown Hills Area of Natural Beauty, offers diverse landscapes for exploration. Visitors can discover ancient woodlands, serene waterways, and historical structures. The area provides opportunities to engage with both local heritage and natural environments.
Last updated: July 6, 2026
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A lovely area to walk around and the hide is well kept and you can see some wonderful birds if you are patient enough.
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Otterhead Lakes is a beautiful nature reserve on the site of a former Victorian estate in the Blackdown Hills Area of Natural Beauty. The reserve features two lakes, a river, grasslands and wetlands and is home to a diverse range of wonderful wildlife species including dormice, badgers, and bats, as well as kingfisher, dipper & wagtail.
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Built in 1842 to provide water for the local canal this is now a nature reserve and fishing lake managed by South Somerset District Council.
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Park opposite Seaton Tower at the picnic site and enjoy the views to the sea
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From the Island Hide, you have a near-360 degree view across this salt lagoon, which was previously drained agricultural land. Look out for oystercatchers, black-tailed godwits and ringed plovers searching for crustacean and mollusc snacks!
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The Stockland area is rich in natural beauty. You can visit Holyford Woods Nature Reserve, which features woodlands of oak, ash, and hazel, and is known for wild garlic and bluebells in spring. Another excellent option is Otterhead Lakes, a nature reserve with two lakes, a river, grasslands, and wetlands, located within the Blackdown Hills Area of Natural Beauty.
Yes, the region offers historical sites. You can explore Dunkeswell Abbey, an ancient monument with a history dating back to 1201. Also, don't miss Beckford Bridge, a well-preserved Grade II-listed packhorse bridge spanning the River Yarty, made from local rubble stone.
For families, Otterhead Lakes is a great choice, offering a nature reserve with diverse wildlife. Another option is the Island Hide at Seaton Wetlands, which provides excellent views of marshland and various bird species, making it an engaging spot for all ages.
There are numerous walking and hiking opportunities. For easy walks, consider routes like the 'Yarty Farm – Beckford Bridge loop from Membury' or the 'View of Blackdown Hills loop from Luppitt'. You can find more options in the Easy hikes around Stockland guide. For more challenging trails, Holyford Woods Nature Reserve offers multiple paths, though some can be steep and muddy after rain.
Yes, the area around Stockland offers several cycling routes. You can find options ranging from moderate to difficult, such as the 'Honiton and Luppitt loop - The Blackdown Hills' or the longer 'Jurassic Coast loop from Axminster'. Explore more routes in the Cycling around Stockland guide.
Spring is a particularly beautiful time to visit, especially for natural attractions like Holyford Woods Nature Reserve, where wild garlic and bluebells are in full bloom. The diverse landscapes of the Blackdown Hills Area of Natural Beauty are generally enjoyable throughout the warmer months.
Absolutely. Otterhead Lakes is a prime location for wildlife spotting, home to dormice, badgers, bats, kingfishers, dippers, and wagtails. The Island Hide at Seaton Wetlands is excellent for observing various waders and seabirds like oystercatchers and black-tailed godwits.
For walks and hikes, especially in nature reserves like Holyford Woods, it's recommended to wear sturdy boots, as paths can be muddy and steep, particularly after wet weather. Layered clothing is always advisable to adapt to changing conditions.
Yes, the area offers several easy walking trails. You can find routes like the 'Yarty Farm – Beckford Bridge loop from Membury' or the 'Hiking loop from Dalwood' which are rated as easy. These are great for a relaxed stroll and exploring the local scenery. More options are available in the Easy hikes around Stockland guide.
Visitors appreciate the diverse natural environments, from the ancient woodlands of Holyford Woods Nature Reserve to the serene waterways of Otterhead Lakes. The historical significance of sites like Dunkeswell Abbey and the charm of Beckford Bridge are also highly valued.
Yes, there are several running trails available. You can choose from moderate loops such as 'St Michael’s Church loop from Cotleigh' or 'Running loop from Stockland'. For more options, refer to the Running Trails around Stockland guide.
Stockland is situated near the Blackdown Hills AONB, offering direct access to its landscapes. Otterhead Lakes is located within this area, providing a great starting point. You can find various hiking and cycling routes that traverse the AONB, such as the 'Honiton and Luppitt loop' for cycling, which are detailed in the respective komoot guides.


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