Top 4 Lakes in North Devon
Lakes in North Devon are found across a diverse landscape, from the tranquil reservoirs on the edge of Exmoor National Park to smaller, picturesque bodies of water nestled within the region's valleys. This area is characterized by its varied terrain, including moorland, woodlands, and coastal estuaries. The lakes here serve as significant natural features, supporting diverse ecosystems and providing resources for the surrounding communities.
Best lakes in North Devon
- The most popular lakes is Crook Pool, a river that offers interesting pools and an island set in forested banks. It is a popular spot for families and children.
- Another must-see spot is Isley Marsh Nature Reserve, a lake area of saltmarsh and intertidal mudflats. This reserve is an important haven for various bird species, including teal, curlew, and spoonbills.
- Visitors also love Wistlandpound Reservoir Bird Hide, a viewpoint offering opportunities for wildlife observation. The reservoir itself is known for its accessible circular trail and diverse birdlife.
- North Devon is known for its reservoirs, natural pools, and marshland lakes. These bodies of water offer a variety of experiences, from birdwatching and accessible walks to watersports and fishing.
- The lakes in North Devon are appreciated by the komoot community, with more than 70 upvotes and over 25 photos shared across the highlights.
Last updated: April 30, 2026
Ilfracombe Harbour
Highlight • Beach
Tip by
Isley Marsh Nature Reserve
Highlight • Lake
Tip by
Sign up now to discover places like this
Get recommendations on the best single tracks, peaks, & plenty of other exciting outdoor places.
Sign up for free
Wistlandpound Reservoir Bird Hide
Highlight • Viewpoint
The reservoir supplies drinking water to nearby Ilfracombe, Barnstaple and Combe Martin. If the water levels are low, look out for the ruins of the Lynton and Barnstaple Railway which used to run though the valley until the reservoir was built in 1956.
Tip by
Rapparee Cove
Highlight • Beach
Tip by
Crook Pool
Highlight • River
Tip by
Wild Swimming Spot by the Shore
Highlight • Lake
Tip by
Start today with a free account
Your next adventure awaits.
Login or Signup
Popular around North Devon
Exmoor National Park – A Walk in the Parks
National Cycle Network Route 3 — Land's End to Bristol
GB Divide — Great Britain end to end off-road on GBDURO
Two Moors Way — Wild coast-to-coast over Dartmoor and Exmoor
West Country Way – Vibrant cities and emerald hills
Devon Coast to Coast – Pristine beaches to vast moorlands
South West Coast Path — Explore Britain's longest trail
A Walk in the Parks – hikes across all of England’s national parks
Wonderful wild swimming walks in Devon's national parks
Around the edge in 80 days — cycling the coastline of Britain
Other adventures in North Devon
Tips from the Community
The restaurant (Smugglers) is a little gem garlic butter lobster and the also let dogs in provided the fit under the tables very reasonable prices as well £35 for a full lobster
3
0
Just after the Round Tower take the small fishermen’s path on the left through the blackthorn bushes down to the shore. There is an old set of steps carved into the rock. Best around high tide.
0
0
Lovely little harbour with colourful boats and some nice pubs around! Mind the black & white grumpy cat! 🐱
2
0
Without a doubt the true center of the town, it is absolutely pulsating here. Lots of places to stop for refreshments, The excursions to the bird island of Lundy also start here. It's interesting that people are still working hard in this port. We really enjoyed seeing so much!
2
0
Wistlandpound Reservoir is a tranquil place where you can feel close to nature. It is an easy 2.6km hike around the edge of the lake which takes you through the forest and along the water's edge. All the while surrounded by beautiful rolling countryside. The path around the reservoir is accessible for both wheelchairs and pushchairs. The reservoir supplies drinking water to nearby Ilfracombe, Barnstaple and Combe Martin. If the water levels are low, look out for the ruins of the Lynton and Barnstaple Railway which used to run though the valley until the reservoir was built in 1956.
1
0
Nice pool in the river loved by kids , good spot for everyone and more to see on the way .
1
0
On the southern shores of Wistpoundland Reservoir, take a break in the bird hide to see what wildlife you can spot. You're fairly likely to see western cattle egret, and might be lucky to see a great white egret in the winter. There have also been recent sightings of white-tailed eagles up here! You can see all different waterfowl by taking a jaunt around the reservoir on the path. Check out more about the reservoir and what to look out for here at:https://www.swlakestrust.org.uk/wistlandpound
0
0
Running alongside the Tarka Trail, the Isley Marsh Nature Reserve is a haven for many different and unusual bird species. Made up of salt marshes and intertidal mudflats on the Taw and Torridge Estuary, the reserve is home to curlew, greenshank, dunlin and even spoonbills during the winter months. You can find more information about the reserve, here: https://www.rspb.org.uk/reserves-and-events/reserves-a-z/isley-marsh/
1
0
Frequently Asked Questions
Which lakes in North Devon offer accessible trails for all abilities?
For accessible walks, Wistlandpound Reservoir features an easy 2.6 km (1.5 miles) circular trail suitable for wheelchairs and pushchairs, winding through forests and along the water's edge. Similarly, the Upper Tamar Lake offers a popular 5km (approximately 3 miles) round-lake walk and cycle trail that is also pushchair and wheelchair friendly.
Where can I enjoy watersports on North Devon's lakes?
The Upper Tamar Lake is a prime spot for watersports, offering kayaking, canoeing, paddleboarding, sailing, and windsurfing, with equipment available for hire. Wimbleball Lake within Exmoor National Park is also a hub for various watersports activities.
Are there good lakes for fishing in North Devon?
Yes, North Devon has excellent fishing opportunities. Stafford Moor boasts seven fully stocked lakes with various species, including carp up to 43 lbs. Mill Park Fishing Lake is another well-regarded spot, stocked with Common Carp, Chubb, Bream, Roach, and Rudd. For fly fishing, Wistlandpound Reservoir is known for brown trout and rudd, while Wimbleball Lake offers rainbow and brown trout.
Which lakes are best for wildlife spotting and birdwatching?
Wistlandpound Reservoir is a haven for wildlife, with opportunities to spot buzzards, goshawks, wildfowl, otters, and deer, especially from the Wistlandpound Reservoir Bird Hide. The Lower Tamar Lake is excellent for birdwatching, particularly for wildfowl in winter, and the Isley Marsh Nature Reserve is an important haven for various bird species like teal, curlew, and spoonbills.
Can I go wild swimming in any of North Devon's lakes?
While general swimming is often restricted in reservoirs for health and safety, Pinkery Pond on Exmoor is a beautiful freshwater swimming spot. Additionally, Crook Pool is described as a great swimming spot with interesting pools and an island. For coastal wild swimming, consider the Wild Swimming Spot by the Shore near Ilfracombe.
What historical features can be found near North Devon's lakes?
At Wistlandpound Reservoir, when water levels are low, you can sometimes glimpse the ruins of the Lynton and Barnstaple Railway, which ran through the valley before the reservoir's construction. Nutscale Reservoir, situated in an Exmoor valley, was originally dammed in 1942 to supply fresh water to Porlock and Minehead.
Are there cafes or amenities available at the lakes?
Yes, several lakes offer amenities. The Upper Tamar Lake has a cafe, children's play area, and camping facilities. Wimbleball Lake also provides facilities including changing rooms, showers, a cafe, and a children's play area. Stafford Moor has on-site facilities including a tackle shop, and Mill Park Fishing Lake offers a toilet block and nearby parking.
What outdoor activities can I do near the lakes in North Devon?
Beyond the lakes themselves, North Devon offers a variety of outdoor activities. You can find numerous running trails, such as the 'Heddon Valley & Woody Bay loop' or 'The Valley of Rocks loop', which are detailed in the Running Trails in North Devon guide. For hiking, explore routes like 'Valley of the Rocks, Lynton & Lynmouth' or 'Heddon Valley to Woody Bay Walk' from the Hiking in North Devon guide. Gravel biking routes are also available, including those near Simonsbath and Great Torrington, as seen in the Gravel biking in North Devon guide.
Which lake is best for stargazing in North Devon?
Wimbleball Lake is a designated Dark Sky Discovery Site, making it an excellent location for stargazing due to its minimal light pollution within the Exmoor National Park.
Are North Devon's lakes dog-friendly?
Many of North Devon's lakes and their surrounding trails are dog-friendly, though specific rules may apply regarding leads, especially in nature reserve areas or near livestock. It's always best to check local signage. For example, the trails around Wistlandpound Reservoir are popular with dog walkers.
What are the best circular lake walks in North Devon?
The Wistlandpound Reservoir offers an easy 2.6 km circular trail. The Upper Tamar Lake also features a popular 5km circular walk and cycle trail. These provide scenic routes around the water's edge, suitable for various activity levels.
What makes the Tamar Lakes unique?
The Tamar Lakes, comprising Upper and Lower, are unique as they straddle the border between Devon and Cornwall and offer distinct experiences. The Lower Lake is primarily a nature reserve, ideal for birdwatching, while the larger Upper Lake is focused on watersports and family activities, including a cafe and play area.
Most popular routes in North Devon
Most popular attractions in North Devon
Get inspired with the komoot mobile app
Didn’t find what you were looking for?
Find the best lakes in North Devon per region:
Explore more
Still not found your perfect lake in North Devon? Check out the guides of these regions to see even more beautiful places.
