Top 8 Lakes around West Buckfastleigh

The area around West Buckfastleigh, particularly within Dartmoor National Park, features a mix of reservoirs, natural pools, and disused quarry ponds. These include man-made water features like the Avon Dam Reservoir and natural spots such as Crazywell Pool, offering diverse landscapes for exploration.

Yes, you can find several unique features. For instance, Haytor Quarry Pond with Water Lilies is an old quarry with a small lake known for its beautiful water lilies. The region also boasts dramatic tors, open moorland, and ancient forests, especially around reservoirs like Burrator, which is often called 'the jewel of Dartmoor'.

The River Dart Country Park, located near Buckfastleigh, is an excellent family destination, featuring a dedicated swimming lake with a pirate ship, adventure playgrounds, and nature trails. Additionally, Venford Reservoir is surrounded by beautiful woodland and is considered family-friendly, offering a flat loop walk.

Yes, Crazywell Pool is highlighted as one of the finest places for a wild swim on Dartmoor. It's a deep, hidden pool offering a unique experience, though safety should always be considered first.

The lakes often have a rich industrial past. Redlake Pool is associated with disused China Clay Works, offering a glimpse into the region's industrial heritage amidst natural moorland. Similarly, Haytor Quarry Pond is part of an old granite quarry, with evidence of ancient human habitation nearby.

Absolutely. Many lakes and reservoirs in the area, such as Avon Dam Reservoir, offer scenic walking routes through ancient forests and open moorland. You can find various hiking options, including easy loops like the Hembury Woods loop or more moderate trails, by exploring the hiking guides around West Buckfastleigh.

The Avon Dam Reservoir is a popular spot for walks, offering beautiful panoramas and opportunities for trout fishing. The area features a gentle climb along a smooth tarmac service road, making it accessible for a pleasant stroll or a break before heading further onto the moors.

The South West Lakes Trust manages numerous reservoirs in Devon, many on Dartmoor, including Burrator, Fernworthy, Kennick, Tottiford, and Trenchford. These sites offer various outdoor activities like stand-up paddleboarding, kayaking, and sailing. For more detailed information on these locations and their offerings, you can visit the South West Lakes Trust section on Visit Dartmoor.

The terrain around the lakes near West Buckfastleigh is diverse, ranging from open moorland and grassy hills to dense woodlands. You might encounter smooth service roads, disused tram tracks, and footpaths that can be rocky or boggy, especially on Dartmoor. Many routes offer stunning views and varied natural landscapes.

Yes, there are several easy walking options. For example, Venford Reservoir offers a flat loop around its perimeter. You can also find a selection of easy hikes, such as the Hembury Woods loop, by checking out the easy hikes guide around West Buckfastleigh.

Visitors appreciate the diverse natural beauty, from the bleakness of the moorland around Redlake Pool to the tranquil beauty of water lilies at Haytor Quarry Pond. The opportunity for wild swimming at spots like Crazywell Pool and the scenic views from dams like Avon Dam Reservoir are also highly valued. The komoot community has shared over 100 photos and given more than 270 upvotes, highlighting the area's appeal.

Parking is available at some locations, such as Venford Reservoir, though spaces can be limited, especially during peak seasons like summer. It's advisable to plan ahead, particularly for popular spots within Dartmoor National Park.

Many areas within Dartmoor National Park, including trails around reservoirs and lakes, are dog-friendly. However, it's always recommended to keep dogs under control, especially due to grazing livestock (cattle, sheep, and Dartmoor ponies) and to check for any specific local restrictions or guidelines at individual sites.