Top 5 Lakes around Okehampton Hamlets
Best lakes around Okehampton Hamlets are situated within a civil parish in West Devon, bordering Dartmoor National Park. This area features a landscape characterized by open moorland, tors, and river valleys. The region offers a blend of natural features and historical industrial sites. Visitors can explore various bodies of water, including man-made reservoirs and quarry lakes.
Best lakes around Okehampton Hamlets
- The most popular lakes is Meldon Reservoir, a lake and natural monument offering peace and quiet. This location…
Last updated: June 17, 2026
Meldon Quarry Lake
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Meldon Reservoir
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Dartmoor National Park
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Fernworthy Reservoir
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Cullever Pool
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Popular around Okehampton Hamlets
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Tips from the Community
doesn't seem likely that this is so close when you are crossing the bridge. it's a little downstream of the bridge.
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Today the old Meldon Quarry plays host to many visitors, some come to walk or cycle, others to swim, a few come for some extreme sports such a bungee jumping whilst others visit the remains of the redundant railway. For whatever reason what they see today is normally a peaceful landscape, albeit an industrial one, however not that long ago it would have been a hive of activity. It’s believed that the first quarrying began around the late 1700s when the local limestone was extracted. Over the years this gradually gave over to aggregate quarrying and apelite quarrying until its final closure. The original owners of the quarry was the London and South Western Railway and then came Britsh Rail and finally EEC Aggregates.
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Beautiful walks but DO NOT LEAVE ANY VALUABLES IN THE CAR! It's a notorious break-in spot!
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Meandering river valleys, expansive moorland, ancient history, and green countryside where wild ponies roam free – Dartmoor is a unique place to cycle. Covering a 368 sq mi (953 sq km) area, the vast moorlands and granite hilltops are just waiting to be discovered. You can find more information about visiting the park, here: https://www.dartmoor.gov.uk/
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Fernworthy Reservoir is home to myriad wildlife and boasts ancient stone cairns, hut circles and a submerged clapper bridge. The lake provides important wildlife habitats for many rare species including marsh fritillary butterfly and the bee hawk moth. You can also see birds such as snipe, heron and grebe all year round.
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Frequently Asked Questions
What are the most popular lakes to visit around Okehampton Hamlets?
The most popular lakes in the area include Meldon Reservoir, known for its peaceful atmosphere and excellent bird life, and Meldon Quarry Lake, which offers a unique blend of industrial heritage and natural beauty. Another favorite is Fernworthy Reservoir, surrounded by forest and rich in wildlife.
Are there family-friendly lakes for walks and activities?
Yes, Meldon Reservoir is considered family-friendly, offering a path that runs the full length of the reservoir, perfect for leisurely walks. The area around Fernworthy Reservoir also provides beautiful walks suitable for families.
What kind of wildlife can I expect to see around the lakes?
The lakes around Okehampton Hamlets are rich in wildlife. Meldon Reservoir is particularly noted for its excellent bird life, including herons, and other wildlife like adders and grass snakes. Fernworthy Reservoir is home to rare species such as the marsh fritillary butterfly, bee hawk moth, snipe, and grebe.
Are there opportunities for fishing at the lakes?
Yes, Meldon Reservoir is stocked with brown trout, and free wilderness brown trout fishing is available from the bank. A valid Environment Agency Rod Licence is required.
What historical or geological points of interest are near the lakes?
The area around Meldon Quarry Lake is a geological Site of Special Scientific Interest (SSSI), known for its unique rock exposures and mineral specimens. The quarry itself has a rich industrial history, with remains of a redundant railway. Nearby, the Meldon Viaduct, part of the Granite Way, is a significant 19th-century railway relic.
Can I go swimming in any of the lakes?
Swimming is generally not permitted in Meldon Reservoir. While some visitors have been known to swim in Meldon Quarry Lake, it is on private land and swimming is not officially permitted. For wild swimming, Cullever Pool, a river spot, is recommended.
What outdoor activities can I do near these lakes?
The area offers extensive opportunities for outdoor activities. You can find numerous hiking trails, including moderate routes like 'Yes Tor & High Willhays loop from Meldon Reservoir' and 'Meldon Reservoir and Black Tor Loop'. For cycling, the 'Granite Way' offers scenic routes. You can explore more options on the hiking guide and cycling guide for Okehampton Hamlets.
Are there easy walking trails around the lakes?
Yes, there are several easy walking trails. For example, the 'Meldon Dam – Meldon Reservoir loop from Meldon Viaduct' is an easy 6.9 km route. You can find more easy hikes in the area on the easy hikes guide for Okehampton Hamlets.
What are the parking options near the lakes?
Parking is available at the dam wall for Meldon Reservoir. For Fernworthy Reservoir, parking is also available, but visitors are advised to not leave valuables in their cars due to past incidents.
What is the general terrain like around the lakes in Okehampton Hamlets?
The terrain around the lakes in Okehampton Hamlets is characterized by open moorland and dramatic tors, offering striking views over the Okement Valley. You'll find a blend of natural features and historical industrial sites, with networks of off-road footpaths and bridleways.
Is the area around Meldon Reservoir suitable for birdwatching?
Absolutely, the area around Meldon Reservoir is known for its excellent bird life, making it a prime spot for birdwatching enthusiasts.
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