Top 8 Lakes around Holne

For scenic walks, Burrator Reservoir offers a tranquil setting with a road encircling it, suitable for walking, running, or cycling. Venford Reservoir, though not in the guide's highlights, is also highly recommended for its picturesque views and a 3-mile easy circular walk, providing access to Bench Tor with views over the Dart Gorge.

Yes, Burrator Reservoir is considered family-friendly, offering a tranquil environment for walks. Additionally, Avon Dam Reservoir is also noted as family-friendly, with a smooth tarmac service road leading to the dam, perfect for a gentle climb.

Absolutely. Crazywell Pool is a deep, hidden natural monument considered one of the finest places for wild swimming on Dartmoor. Sharrah Pool, a renowned wild swimming spot within the River Dart, also offers calm, deep water nestled between cascades, accessible via scenic riverside trails.

The areas around the lakes are rich in wildlife. Near Venford Reservoir, you might spot ground-nesting birds, including the rare Ring Ouzel, and it's also a free wilderness fishery for natural brown trout. The surrounding woodlands offer opportunities for wildlife spotting in a sheltered environment.

Yes, Dartmoor has a fascinating industrial past. Haytor Quarry Pond with Water Lilies is an old quarry where you can see evidence of Dartmoor's industrial heritage, including the granite tramway. Redlake Pool is another site where china clay was extracted, with ruins of a hostel and evidence of peat digging nearby.

Beyond walking, you can enjoy mountain biking on trails like those found in the MTB Trails around Holne guide. The road around Burrator Reservoir is also suitable for cycling. The region's rivers, like the Dart near Sharrah Pool, are excellent for wild swimming.

Accessibility varies. Avon Dam Reservoir offers a smooth tarmac service road, making it more accessible. While not directly in Holne, Fernworthy Reservoir (further north) has a 2.6-mile circular route with parts accessible for wheelchairs and buggies. Venford Reservoir has car parking areas and public toilets, and its circular walk is considered easy.

For Venford Reservoir, there are car parking areas available on either side of its dam wall. For other locations, it's advisable to check specific highlight details or local signage, as parking can vary across Dartmoor.

The lakes around Holne offer beauty year-round. Spring and summer are ideal for enjoying water lilies at Haytor Quarry Pond and wild swimming at spots like Crazywell Pool or Sharrah Pool. Autumn brings vibrant foliage to the surrounding woodlands, while winter offers a stark, serene beauty, though conditions can be more challenging.

Generally, dogs are welcome on Dartmoor's trails, but it's crucial to keep them on a lead, especially during lambing season (March to July) and near ground-nesting birds. Always follow the Dartmoor National Park's dog policy to protect livestock and wildlife. Specific rules may apply to reservoir properties, so check local signage.

Venford Reservoir is popular for its stunning views, especially over the Dart Gorge, and its easy 3-mile circular footpath. It's surrounded by diverse woodlands, making it excellent for sheltered strolls and wildlife spotting. Its proximity to antiquities and historical sites also adds to its appeal.

Sharrah Pool is a renowned wild swimming spot within the River Dart, characterized by calm, deep water nestled between cascades and lined with granite. It's highly recommended for its idyllic swimming conditions and the beautiful, shaded riverside trails leading to it, particularly through the National Trust's Holne Woods.

Several routes incorporate the beautiful water bodies. For an easy option, consider the 'Sharrah Pool – Venford Reservoir loop from Holne' (5.09 km) or the 'Venford Reservoir – Venford Waterfalls loop from Holne' (3.73 km). You can find more options in the Waterfall hikes around Holne guide or the Hiking around Holne guide.